Indian Captain Smit Machchhar Receives Top UAE Honour

The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow crew members for their courage during a dangerous in-flight incident that threatened the lives of more than 170 passengers. 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. The medals were presented by Dubai Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at a ceremony on October 27. UAE leaders praised the crew’s courage, professionalism and sense of responsibility.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard a flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Reports said the Omani co-pilot attacked Captain Machchhar with an emergency crash axe inside the cockpit, leaving him seriously injured. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene and restrain the attacker. Another team of pilots aboard the aircraft then took control and landed the plane safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Israel has also announced a civilian heroism award for Machchhar in recognition of his actions.