UAE Honours Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar for Bravery During flydubai Cockpit Attack
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Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow flydubai crew members for their courage during a cockpit attack on September 30. Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling crew members and passengers to intervene and help prevent 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, recognising their efforts to protect passengers and secure the aircraft during the emergency.
Machchhar's actions have drawn international praise, with leaders from India, the UAE, Israel and the United States commending his bravery. Israel has also announced a civilian bravery award for the Indian captain, which will be presented after he recovers from his injuries.
Sheikh Hamdan Presents Honours to flydubai Crew
The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of Dubai's Executive Council.
On Tuesday, the UAE President also received 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 courage and professionalism in protecting passengers and securing the aircraft. It reaffirmed that safeguarding people's safety and security remains a priority for the country.
The crew members thanked the UAE President and expressed pride in receiving the honour.
UAE Crown Prince Visits Injured Indian Captain
Sheikh Hamdan had visited Machchhar on October 3 while the captain was receiving treatment for his injuries. During the visit, he praised Machchhar's courage, sense of responsibility and commitment to protecting human life.
"From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise," Sheikh Hamdan said in a social media post.
He also said the UAE was proud to have Machchhar as part of its team and national story, describing the country as "a nation of compassion ... a nation of peace ... and a nation of life".
The visit followed the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority's commendation of Machchhar, the crew members and the passengers who helped bring the incident under control.
PM Modi, Netanyahu and Trump Praise Captain Machchhar
Machchhar's actions have received recognition from leaders across several countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Indian pilot a hero, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised his bravery. US President Donald Trump also commended Machchhar for opening the cockpit door despite being seriously injured.
Israel has separately announced a civilian bravery award for the captain, to be presented once he has recovered from his injuries.
The UAE's latest honour recognises the efforts of the flydubai crew in responding to the emergency and protecting those on board during the September 30 incident.
