Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot flying for flydubai, has been formally honoured by the United Arab Emirates for his heroic actions during a life-threatening mid-air incident. On Tuesday, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First-Class Order of Zayed II on Captain Machchhar and his crew in recognition of their bravery in safeguarding passengers during the flight.
The ceremony was held in the presence of UAE Vice President and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with the honour presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The leadership commended the crew for their sense of responsibility and commitment to human life, reinforcing that the security of passengers remains a top priority for the nation.
The incident occurred on September 30 during flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to reports, Captain Machchhar was subjected to a sudden and violent assault by his co-pilot inside the cockpit. In an interview, Machchhar described the terrifying moment the attack began, noting that he initially thought the aircraft had suffered structural damage before realizing his co-pilot was striking him. Despite suffering significant injuries and temporary loss of vision, Machchhar managed to unlatch the cockpit door while calling for assistance.
His actions allowed off-duty crew members and passengers to enter the cockpit and restrain the assailant, who had allegedly used an axe during the confrontation in an attempt to bring down the aircraft. During the struggle, the plane plummeted 17,000 feet, a moment Machchhar described as particularly harrowing due to the sound of the engines spooling down. A distress signal was initiated, and the flight was subsequently diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it made an emergency landing.
All 172 passengers and crew members on board disembarked safely in Tabuk. Following the event, Captain Machchhar underwent medical treatment for his injuries. During his recovery, he was visited by Sheikh Hamdan, who expressed immense pride in the pilot’s conduct. In a statement posted on social media, the Crown Prince described Machchhar as a person who embodied the highest degrees of courage and care, adding that the captain’s actions reflected the UAE’s values of compassion, peace, and life.
Reflecting on the trauma of the event, Machchhar maintained that his dedication to aviation remains steadfast. He expressed relief that he was able to fulfill his duty and ensure the safety of those on the flight. Despite the severity of the attack, which included a hijacking attempt, the pilot noted that his passion for flying remains unchanged by the experience.
The recognition of his bravery has extended beyond the UAE. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced that he will present Captain Machchhar with Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. The coordinated response by the captain, his crew, and the passengers involved has been widely praised by both UAE and international authorities for preventing a potential aviation disaster.
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