Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism for his role in averting a potential catastrophe aboard a Flydubai flight, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced.
Herzog made the announcement on Thursday while presenting the same award to six Israeli passengers who helped stop an alleged hijacking attempt aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 on September 30.
Praising Machchhar’s courage and professionalism, Herzog said he would personally honour the Indian captain once he recovers.
Why Is Israel Honouring Captain Smit Machchhar?
During the award ceremony, Herzog expressed his wishes for Machchhar’s full and speedy recovery, saying the pilot’s courage and professionalism had helped avert a catastrophe.
The Israeli president said it would be his honour to present Machchhar with the award on behalf of the people of Israel once the captain regains his strength.
The announcement recognises Machchhar’s actions during a dangerous mid-air incident that put the flight and its occupants at risk.
What Happened Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
On September 30, Flydubai Flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when an alleged attack inside the cockpit triggered a serious emergency.
According to reports, Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot and sustained severe injuries. Despite being hurt, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene.
Passengers helped subdue the co-pilot, while other pilots aboard the aircraft assisted in bringing the emergency under control. The aircraft eventually made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Investigations into the incident and the alleged motive behind the attack remain separate from the award announcement.
Who Are The Six Israeli Passengers Receiving The Award?
Herzog presented the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism to six Israeli passengers who helped respond to the crisis.
The recipients were Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov.
Their actions included raising the alarm, intervening during the cockpit emergency and providing medical assistance to the injured captain. The award recognises their efforts in helping prevent a potentially disastrous outcome.
Where Is Captain Smit Machchhar Now?
Machchhar is recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi after suffering serious injuries in the September 30 incident.
Herzog’s announcement means the Indian captain is set to receive Israel’s civilian bravery honour once his recovery allows him to accept it. No formal presentation date for Machchhar has been announced in the information available so far.
