UAE Awards First Class Order of Zayed II to flydubai Crew for Cockpit Heroics

The United Arab Emirates honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew for their actions during a cockpit emergency on September 30, when the injured captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew and passengers to intervene and prevent a possible tragedy. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew members, recognizing their efforts to protect passengers and secure the aircraft.

The awards were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, also received the crew members.

"From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise," Sheikh Hamdan said in a social-media post, adding that the UAE was proud to have Machchhar as part of its national story.

International leaders, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, issued statements praising Machchhar’s bravery. Israel announced a civilian bravery award for the captain, to be presented after his recovery.

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority previously commended Machchhar, the crew and the passengers for bringing the incident under control, emphasizing the country's commitment to safety and security.