United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has honoured Indian-origin Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai flight crew for their actions in protecting passengers during a cockpit attack aboard flight FZ1073 on September 30.
The captain and crew were awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II in recognition of their bravery, professionalism and dedication to passenger safety during the mid-air emergency.
The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, who commended the crew for their actions and sense of responsibility.
Captain Injured During Cockpit Attack
The incident occurred aboard a flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, Captain Machchhar was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit, leaving him seriously injured as the aircraft descended thousands of feet.
Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing cabin crew members, off-duty pilots and other passengers to enter and restrain the attacker. The crew subsequently managed the emergency, and the aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar reportedly sustained a skull fracture and other serious injuries after being attacked with a crash axe. He was taken to Zayed Military Hospital in Abu Dhabi for treatment and later recovered.
Recalling the incident in an earlier interview, the captain described his determination to survive, saying, “I told myself that, Smit, do something. You can’t die like this.”
He also said he had not noticed anything unusual during his initial interaction with the co-pilot, adding that it was the first time the two had met.
Machchhar credited the cabin crew for their response during the emergency, describing them as “very, very, very efficient crew who saved my life.”
Crew Expresses Gratitude for Recognition
According to a statement from the Government of Dubai, the crew members thanked the UAE President for the honour and expressed pride in receiving the recognition.
The statement said the award reflected the leadership’s appreciation of service, dedication and commitment.
The First-Class Order of Zayed II recognises individuals for exceptional service, outstanding bravery or significant contributions to the UAE.
Senior Officials Attend Award Ceremony
The ceremony was attended by several senior UAE officials, including Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, was also present, along with other officials.
The recognition highlights the role of flight crews in managing emergencies and protecting passengers, particularly in situations requiring rapid decisions and coordinated action at high altitude.
