UAE Honours Captain Smit Machhar for Saving 180 Lives
Flydubai captain receives a top UAE honour after a violent cockpit attack forced an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- UAE honours Smit Machhar for courage during a cockpit attack.
- Flydubai Flight FZ1073 reportedly lost 17,000 feet.
- All 180 people aboard survived the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- Israel also announces a civilian bravery award for the captain.
GG News Bureau
Dubai, 29th Oct: Smit Machhar, a Flydubai captain, has been honoured by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for his courage during a violent cockpit attack that threatened the lives of 180 people aboard Flight FZ1073. Machhar and the flight’s crew received the First-Class Order of Zayed II for their role in helping bring the aircraft to a safe emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the crew’s bravery and commitment to passenger safety. The recognition was presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during a meeting attended by Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Violent Cockpit Incident Forced Emergency Diversion
The incident occurred on September 30, when Flydubai Flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. A violent confrontation inside the cockpit put the aircraft and its passengers at serious risk, forcing the flight to divert towards Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Machhar sustained serious injuries during the incident. He later recalled that the co-pilot allegedly attacked him repeatedly before he could open the cockpit door. Initially, he thought an aircraft component had struck his head, but he soon realised he was being assaulted by a member of his own crew.
Despite his injuries and increasingly blurred vision, Machhar tried to free himself from his seat belt, reach the cockpit door handle and call for help. He eventually collapsed unconscious, but his efforts to open the door helped other crew members respond to the emergency.
Aircraft Lost Around 17,000 Feet
According to the account provided, the aircraft lost approximately 17,000 feet during the incident. Machhar described hearing and feeling the engines shut down as one of the most frightening moments of the ordeal.
Reports said the co-pilot attacked the captain with an axe and attempted to force the aircraft into a descent. Machhar managed to open the cockpit door, after which other crew members and passengers entered and restrained the co-pilot.
An emergency hijacking signal was reportedly sent, and the aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk. All 180 people aboard survived.
Captain Says His Passion for Aviation Remains
Despite the life-threatening experience and serious injuries, Machhar said his love for flying had not diminished.
“Has my love for aviation gone? Absolutely not. Not at all. I’m just glad I could do my duty,” he said.
His response reflected his focus on protecting passengers and fulfilling his responsibilities even under extreme pressure.
Israel Also Announces Bravery Award
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan had visited Machhar during his treatment and praised his courage and commitment to saving lives. In a post on X, he said the captain represented the UAE’s values of compassion, peace and respect for human life.
Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has also announced a presidential award for civilian bravery for Machhar. The recognition from both countries highlights the captain’s actions during an incident that could have ended in disaster.
