International Leaders Praise flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar for Cockpit Heroism

Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar was seriously injured during a cockpit confrontation on flight FZ1073 on September 30, but managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing crew and passengers to subdue the attacker and bring the aircraft safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The incident prompted a series of official recognitions.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to the flight crew, with the honors presented by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Sheikh Hamdan visited the recovering captain on October 3, describing his actions as “the highest degrees of courage, responsibility and care for human life.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the captain a “hero” on social media, highlighting his “immense courage and unwavering resolve.” India’s ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, said the crew turned “an unthinkable tragedy into a safe landing.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Machchhar’s “extraordinary bravery” and announced an invitation to Israel as a guest of honour. President Isaac Herzog said the captain would receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after he recovers, noting his “sheer courage and professionalism.” Six Israeli passengers who helped restrain the attacker were also slated to receive the same award.

U.S. President Donald Trump said the pilot was “in very bad shape” but acted like a hero by opening the door. The U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution commending the captain, crew and intervening passengers and calling for a swift investigation into threats against civil aviation.

Community prayers were held at Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir, where worshippers gathered to wish the captain a full recovery. The captain later recounted to Sky News Arabia that he was struck in the head, lost consciousness repeatedly, and forced himself to act to prevent a larger disaster.