Dubai, October 28: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has honoured Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow Flydubai crew members for their courage and efforts to protect passengers during a mid-air attack aboard a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight.
The crew members were awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II in recognition of their bravery and commitment to passenger safety. The medals were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and UAE Minister of Defence, during a presidential reception, according to the Dubai Media Office.
The incident took place on September 30 aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with more than 170 people on board.
According to the report, Captain Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot with a crash axe, an emergency tool kept in the cockpit. The assault left the Indian pilot seriously injured, while the motive behind the attack remains unclear.
The co-pilot, identified by Israeli officials as an Omani national, reportedly stabbed Machchhar, causing the aircraft to plunge nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds.
Despite suffering serious injuries and lying covered in blood, Machchhar managed to summon his remaining strength to open the cockpit door release. His action enabled passengers and crew members to overpower the co-pilot and regain control of the situation.
Two additional Flydubai pilots who were travelling on board subsequently helped ensure the aircraft’s safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The co-pilot was taken into custody, while Machchhar received initial medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk before being transferred to Abu Dhabi for further care.
The UAE President’s honour recognised the crew’s exceptional courage, professionalism and determination in safeguarding the lives of everyone aboard the aircraft.
During the ceremony, the crew members expressed their gratitude to the UAE President and said they were proud to receive the distinction, which reflects the country’s appreciation for service, dedication and commitment.
Several senior UAE officials attended the reception, including Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The First Class Order of Zayed II is a high-level UAE civil decoration awarded to recognise distinguished service, exceptional courage and significant contributions.
