The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew for their courage during a serious cockpit attack aboard a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026. Despite suffering serious injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene and help prevent a potential tragedy.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on Captain Machchhar and the crew members involved in the incident. The honour recognised their bravery, professionalism and efforts to protect the passengers during the emergency.
The awards were presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at a presidential reception. The UAE leadership praised the crew for their courage and responsible actions in safeguarding the passengers and securing the aircraft.
The incident occurred aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar, seriously injuring him and causing the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly.
Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door. This allowed other crew members and passengers to intervene and overpower the attacker. Additional pilots then took control of the aircraft, which landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All passengers and crew survived the incident.
The honour adds to the international recognition Captain Machchhar has received for his actions. His response during the emergency highlighted the importance of quick thinking, teamwork and courage in protecting lives during a critical situation.
