UAE honours Indian pilot for mid-air heroism
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First-Class Order of Zayed II to Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew members, honoring their bravery in protecting passengers during an in-flight attack last month.
Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the award on Tuesday. The President also welcomed the crew alongside Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The incident occurred on September 30 on flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv carrying over 170 people. The co-pilot attacked Captain Smit Machchhar in the cockpit using an emergency crash axe, inflicting severe injuries. Reports indicate the aircraft plummeted 14,000 feet in under thirty seconds. Israeli officials confirmed the co-pilot is a national while the motive remains unclear.
Captain Smit Machchhar told The National that he sustained blows before managing to open the cockpit door. Crew members, off-duty pilots, and passengers then intervened, securing the situation and ensuring the survival of everyone on board.
While Captain Smit Machchhar was recovering from his injuries, Sheikh Hamdan visited him to praise his bravery, duty, and dedication to human life, stating he felt proud that Captain Machchhar shares in the “story of our nation.”
The Order of Zayed II ranks among the UAE’s most prestigious civilian decorations.
