Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, flydubai Crew Honoured by UAE President for Bravery During Mid-Air Attack

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II upon Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow flydubai crew members for their bravery during a mid-air attack aboard a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. According to a Dubai Media Office statement on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the medals were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, during a presidential reception.

Incident Details

The incident took place on September 30 aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with more than 170 people on board. Reports indicate that Captain Machchhar was attacked in the cockpit by his co-pilot using a crash axe, resulting in serious injuries. According to reports, the co-pilot—identified by Israeli officials as an Omani national—stabbed the captain and caused the aircraft to descend rapidly before the crew and passengers intervened.

Captain Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the co-pilot. A second pair of flydubai pilots on board subsequently landed the aircraft safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Captain Machchhar received initial treatment at a hospital in Tabuk before being transferred to Abu Dhabi.

Official Findings and Honours

UAE prosecutors stated that the co-pilot intended to crash the plane into Tel Aviv airport and had allegedly drawn inspiration from the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States, utilizing previous flights to familiarise himself with the route. The Omani co-pilot was taken into custody following the incident.

The award ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The First Class Order of Zayed II is a prominent civil decoration awarded by the UAE President to recognize distinguished service and courage.