Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, flydubai crew honoured by UAE President for bravery during mid-air attack
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and his flydubai crew. The honor recognizes their bravery and commitment to passenger safety during a mid-air attack by a co-pilot on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Why it matters
This event highlights international recognition for aviation safety personnel and underscores the diplomatic ties between India and the UAE regarding the welfare of Indian expatriates.
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, flydubai crew honoured by UAE President for bravery during mid-air attack left Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum confers the First Class Order of Zayed II upon the flydubai crew members, including Indian Captain Smit Machchhar who got injured in an attack by his co-pilot on a flydubai plane, in Dubai. PTI PTI https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/4a8isd/article71634574.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/PTI10_28_2026_000009B.jpg - **EDS: TO GO WITH STORY; THIRD PARTY IMAGE** In this image posted on Oct. 28, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum confers the First Class Order of Zayed II upon the flydubai crew members, including Indian Captain Smit Machchhar who got injured in an attack by his co-pilot on a flydubai plane, in Dubai.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in