UAE President Says He Will Learn Fighting Skills From Smit Machchhar After His Recovery

Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar received a light-hearted offer from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a ceremony honouring his bravery. The UAE government presented him with the prestigious First Class Order of Zayed II in recognition of his courageous actions during an attack aboard the aircraft. During their meeting, the president asked how long Machchhar would need to recover from his injuries. When the captain estimated that it could take around two months, the president jokingly said he wanted Machchhar to give him a session on how to fight once he had recovered. The captain replied that it would be his greatest honour.

The UAE president also said that the aircraft’s crew members and passengers were like his own family and assured them of the country’s support. Meanwhile, footage released in connection with the incident reportedly showed that Machchhar had sustained a serious skull injury during the attack. Reports stated that co-pilot Hamami had attacked him with a crash axe. The UAE’s decision to honour the captain recognised his courage during the incident and his efforts to protect those aboard the aircraft.