Flydubai Pilot Smit Macchar Awarded UAE's Top Honour

The UAE has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Macchar with its top award, the First Class Order of Zayed II, for preventing a hijacking on board a Flydubai flight.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan granted the award to Captain Macchar and the other members of the flight crew.

The ceremony-style presentation was made by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The Dubai Media Office disclosed the news through its social media channels.

UAE authorities highlighted the crew's rapid action, sense of duty and professional skill. They said safeguarding passengers remains a central priority for the country.

The President met the crew in person, with senior figures in attendance. These included the UAE Vice President, the Prime Minister and Dubai's Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The honour was given following an incident on Flydubai flight FZ1073 on September 30. While flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the co-pilot attacked Captain Macchar in the cockpit and attempted to take over the aircraft.

UAE prosecutors' investigation found that the accused aimed to bring the plane down at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, which could have resulted in massive casualties and property damage.

Despite being severely wounded, Captain Macchar was able to open the cockpit door. Other crew members and passengers subsequently intervened and subdued the attacker.

The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, where it made a safe landing. Passengers and crew members on board were all spared.

Following the event, Sheikh Hamdan met Captain Macchar in hospital and praised his bravery and commitment to protecting human life. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also applauded his heroism.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has also declared that Captain Macchar will be awarded the country's civilian bravery honour once he has fully recovered.