UAE Honours Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar with First Class Order of Zayed II for Bravery

On October 27th 2026, the UAE government honored Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai flight crew members responsible for handling the dangerous situation. His Highness UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan honored them with the First Class Order of Zayed II in appreciation of their bravery and dedication in protecting the passengers. The awards were given out by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence.

About First Class Order of Zayed II

The First Class Order of Zayed II is an official state decoration of the United Arab Emirates named in honor of the country’s founding president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

It is awarded by the UAE President to recognize individuals for outstanding service, acts of bravery, significant diplomatic contributions, or devotion to the nation.

What Happened in the Cockpit of Flydubai Flight FZ1073?

In the case of the Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai in the UAE to Tel Aviv in Israel on 30th of September 2026, an incident occurred in the cockpit.

Captain Smit Machchhar, who is an Indian pilot, was injured seriously in an attack conducted by his co-pilot.

Despite his injury, the pilot succeeded in opening the cockpit door and, with the assistance of other pilots and members of the cabin crew and passengers, was able to subdue the attacker. The plane made an emergency landing at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

The incident was of international significance as it was the joint effort of the crew and passengers that prevented a disaster.

Recognition by International Leaders of Captain Machchhar

Captain Machchhar’s acts have been acknowledged by leaders in India, Israel, the UAE and the US.

United Arab Emirates

• The First Class Order of Zayed II award was made to Captain Machchhar and flydubai crew for their efforts.

Israel

• President of Israel, Isaac Herzog said that Captain Machchhar would be given the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism once he recovers from his injuries.
• This award is given to six Israelis who helped during this situation on 8th October 2026.

India

• Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi appreciated the bravery of Captain Machchhar.

United States

• President of the US, Donald Trump appreciated Captain Machchhar for his efforts.