The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian pilot Capt. Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew for their bravery in responding to a cockpit emergency on September 30.
Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene and help avert a potential tragedy.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew members involved in the incident.
The UAE President honours Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow flydubai crew members for their courage and efforts to protect passengers during an in-flight incident in September
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UAE Leadership Praises Crew’s Courage
The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s crown prince, deputy prime minister and defense minister.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also met the crew members in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, prime minister and ruler of Dubai.
The UAE leadership praised the crew’s professionalism, courage and efforts to protect passengers. The crew members thanked the president for the recognition and expressed pride in receiving the honour.
On October 3, Sheikh Hamdan visited Machchhar while he was undergoing treatment, praising his courage, sense of responsibility and concern for human life.
The visit followed a commendation from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, which recognised the captain, crew members and passengers who helped bring the incident under control.
Global Leaders Recognise Machchhar
Machchhar has also received recognition from leaders in India, Israel and the United States.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a hero, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump also praised his actions.
Israel has announced a civilian bravery award for Machchhar, which will be presented after he recovers from his injuries.
