Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar Receives Global Praise, UAE And Israel Honour His Courage

Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073, has received global appreciation for his courage during a cockpit attack.

The UAE has formally recognised him and the flight crew, while Israel plans to honour him after his recovery.

Members of the UAE community have also offered prayers for his health. At Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir, swamis and devotees gathered to pray for his speedy recovery.

The temple shared a video showing devotees singing hymns as priests performed special prayers. It expressed wishes for Machchhar’s healing and strength for his family.

On September 30, Machchhar piloted a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked him inside the cockpit.

Despite suffering serious injuries and repeatedly losing consciousness, Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door.

This allowed crew members and passengers to intervene. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and landed safely.

Last week, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to Machchhar and the crew.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the honours. UAE leaders praised the crew’s courage, professionalism and commitment to passenger safety during the emergency.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog previously wrote to Machchhar, praising his determination and describing him as a hero of Israel, India and humanity.

Herzog announced that Machchhar would receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after recovering. The award represents the country’s highest civilian bravery honour.

He praised the pilot’s strength, judgment and ability to overcome pain while protecting those aboard the aircraft.

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