UAE Gives Smit Machchhar and Crew Top Bravery Honour

A cockpit attack that put 172 people at risk has brought Captain Smit Machchhar and flydubai crew members the UAE’s First Class Order of Zayed II. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed granted the honour, which Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed presented, for their actions during the September 30 emergency. The award recognizes the crew’s efforts to protect passengers and secure the aircraft. ¹⁸

On September 30, flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked Machchhar with a crash axe, seriously injuring him. The aircraft plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds. Though badly hurt and lying on the cockpit floor, Machchhar opened the door, allowing passengers and crew to step in. Two other flydubai pilots were aboard as passengers; they helped regain control, and the plane diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The co-pilot was taken into custody. ^9,10

The safe landing in Tabuk meant everyone aboard survived. It showed how much depended on those who could reach the cockpit in a crisis. The First Class Order of Zayed II recognizes the crew’s courage and service, while UAE leaders praised their sense of duty and commitment to passenger safety. Reports say the attack’s motive remains unclear, and sources differ on how officials describe the incident. Machchhar was first treated in Tabuk and later moved to Abu Dhabi for care. ^10,17

Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi, and another honour awaits him. Israel has announced a civilian bravery award for the pilot, to be presented after his recovery. Sheikh Hamdan visited him in hospital on October 3 and praised his concern for human life. The UAE ceremony is complete; Israel is set to present its award when Machchhar has recovered. ^1,8