The UAE President confers a top civilian award on Captain Smit Machchhar and other crew members for their actions that ensured the safety of passengers during an in-flight incident.
On September 30, during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot. The crew, assisted by another pilot on board and passengers, intervened to regain control of the aircraft. The pilots were able to bring the situation under control and divert the plane to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
The UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan later honoured the crew for their actions. The honour, one of the UAE’s top civilian awards – the First Class Order of Zayed II – was conferred in recognition of their courageous efforts to ensure the safety of passengers aboard FZ1073.
The UAE President, along with Vice President & Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, received the crew members. The leaders praised the crew’s courage and professionalism in ensuring the safety of passengers and securing the aircraft, affirming that protecting people’s safety and security remains a top priority for the UAE.
The honours were presented by UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who commended the crew’s actions and sense of responsibility. The ceremony was also attended by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Emirates Airline and Group, along with other senior officials. The crew members expressed their gratitude to the UAE President and pride in receiving the honour, which reflects recognition of their service, dedication, and commitment.
Source:
Akashvani News
