Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has honoured Indian pilot Smith Machhar with the ‘Order of Zayed II’ in recognition of his courage and professionalism during an emergency aboard a flydubai aircraft on September 30.
The award was conferred on behalf of the UAE President in recognition of the pilot’s efforts to protect passengers during the incident. Despite sustaining injuries, Machhar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling the onboard crew and passengers to provide timely assistance.
The coordinated response helped avert what could have become a major tragedy, according to official information.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, praised the pilot and the crew for their courage and commitment to saving lives. During a hospital visit on October 3, he commended Machhar for his actions during the emergency.
