'Battle scars': Massive stitches on Capt Smit's head draw attention as UAE honours him
Captain Smit Machchhar was honored by the UAE for his bravery during a mid-air cockpit attack on a flydubai flight. Despite suffering severe injuries from a co-pilot's assault, he helped secure the cockpit and ensure the safety of the passengers.
Why it matters
Documents a significant aviation safety incident and the subsequent recognition of the crew's heroism by international authorities.
A massive line of stitches running across the back of Captain Smit Machchhar’s head has brought the severity of the Indian pilot’s injuries into focus as he received a prestigious UAE honour for his role in thwarting the mid-air cockpit attack.Far-right UK leader Tommy Robinson shared a photograph of the scar on social media, praising Machchhar for his bravery. “Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear battle scars. Hero Indian Captain Smit Machchhar. The world salutes you,” Robinson wrote.The Indian captain and his fellow flydubai crew members were conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in recognition of their efforts to protect passengers during the September 30 incident aboard flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv.The medals were presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at a presidential reception.
Headlinne story · 3 newsrooms
UAE Honours Indian Pilot and Crew for Thwarting Cockpit Attack
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4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
UAE President Honours flydubai Hero Captain, Crew For Courageous Actions
UAE honours Captain Smit Machchhar for bravery during flydubai cockpit attack
Captain Smit Machchhar, flydubai crew honoured by UAE President for mid-air heroism
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, flydubai crew honoured by UAE President for bravery during mid-air attack
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