UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and his flydubai cabin crew . The highly revered award is for their bravery while handling a violent mid-air cockpit attack on September 30 when a seriously injured Machchhar unlocked the security door to allow cabin crew and passengers to restrain the attacker.
Presentation of the Royal Awards in Dubai
Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, presented the awards at a ceremony attended by UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Leadership praises: UAE leaders praised the crew’s prompt handling of the crisis, saying that ensuring passenger security is a top priority in the country.
Personal hospital visit: Sheikh Hamdan visited Machchhar in the hospital on October 3, praising his dedication to saving lives.
National recognition: Sheikh Hamdan said in his social media post that the UAE sees Machchhar as an important part of its history, calling him an embodiment of courage and professionalism.
Praise from around the world for acts of bravery
The acts of Captain Machchhar received great praise from around the world after the GCAA praised him officially.
India: The Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Captain Machchhar as a hero for India for his acts of bravery during physical pain.
Israel: The Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated the captain on his exceptional bravery and announced a civilian award from the state to Captain Machchhar after he recovers fully from his injury.
United States: President Donald Trump congratulated Captain Machchhar on his strategic act of opening the cockpit door while being seriously injured himself.
