Flydubai: Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced that Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. He made the announcement while presenting the Presidential Medal for Civilian Heroism to six Israeli passengers who helped thwart the alleged attempt to crash flydubai Flight FZ1073.
Award to Be Presented After Recovery
Herzog said that once Machchhar regains his strength, it would be an honour and a privilege to present him with the award on behalf of the people of Israel. The captain is recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital after severe injuries sustained in the September 30 incident involving his co-pilot. Herzog also sent heartfelt wishes for his full and speedy recovery to the ceremony.
DON'T MISS
Six Passengers Honoured
The medal went to six Israeli civilians: Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov. The award was created after the October 7 massacre to recognise people who risked their lives to save others. It is considered Israel’s highest civilian recognition for heroism.
What Happened on Flight FZ1073
The flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers. The co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a knife as the plane went into a dangerous nosedive. Machchhar, despite serious stab wounds, resisted the attacker and opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower him. The aircraft diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia and landed safely.
Earlier Recognition for the Captain
Herzog had already thanked Machchhar on X on October 1, praising his bravery, determination and actions that saved many lives. Israel’s envoy to India, Reuven Azar, had said Israel would honour him. The Israeli consulate in Mumbai also put up a billboard hailing him as India’s new hero. In India, the Gujarat government announced the Visisht Gujarat Garima Award for him. The motive behind the alleged attack is still under investigation, and the UAE Foreign Ministry has said it is monitoring the case.
