Israel to honour Capt. Smit Machchhar with civilian heroism award
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar is set to receive Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism for his role in thwarting a mid-air attack by a co-pilot on a Flydubai flight. President Isaac Herzog praised the captain and other passengers for their bravery in preventing a potential catastrophe.
Why it matters
Recognizes individual heroism in a high-stakes aviation security incident and highlights diplomatic recognition between India and Israel.
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, who fought off an attack from his co-pilot inside the cockpit of a flydubai plane, will receive Israel's highest bravery award for civilians, President Isaac Herzog has said.
President Herzog on Thursday (October 8, 2026) presented the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism to six individuals who were on board the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026.
"Alongside the Israeli heroes whom we honour today, we send our heartfelt wishes for the full and speedy recovery of Captain Smit Machchhar of India," Mr. Herzog said during the ceremony that took place at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Mr. Machchhar's "sheer courage and bravery and sound professionalism helped avert this catastrophe. Once he regains strength, it will be my honour and privilege to award him, on behalf of the people of Israel, the State of Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism," he said.
Also covering this story
2 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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