Abu Dhabi :The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow flydubai crew members for their courage and professionalism during a serious cockpit attack aboard a flight on September 30.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew in recognition of their efforts to protect passengers during the mid-air emergency. The awards were presented by Dubai Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
What happened aboard the flight?
The incident occurred aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30. According to reports, Machchhar was seriously injured after being attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit.
Despite his injuries, the Indian captain managed to open the cockpit door, enabling other crew members and passengers to intervene and help bring the situation under control.
The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it made an emergency landing. All those aboard survived the incident, according to published reports. The response of Machchhar, fellow crew members and passengers helped avert a potentially catastrophic outcome.
UAE leadership praises crew
The UAE leadership commended the crew for their courage, sense of responsibility and commitment to passenger safety. The recognition highlighted the importance of professionalism and decisive action when dealing with emergencies in the aviation sector.
Sheikh Hamdan had earlier visited Machchhar in hospital on October 3, while the captain was receiving treatment for his injuries. He praised the pilot’s courage and dedication to protecting human life.
The award marks significant recognition for Machchhar and the flydubai crew following an incident that drew international attention. Their actions have also renewed focus on the critical role played by pilots, cabin crew and passengers in responding to emergencies at high altitude.
The honour underscores the UAE’s appreciation for individuals whose actions demonstrate courage, responsibility and a commitment to safeguarding lives.
UAE President confers the First Class Order of Zayed II on the flydubai crew members involved in September’s in-flight incident, in recognition of their courageous efforts to ensure the safety of passengers. The honours were presented by Hamdan bin Mohammed, who commended the crew’s actions and sense of responsibility.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 27, 2026
