News Desk: United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan shared a lighthearted exchange with Indian pilot Smit Machchhar during a ceremony honouring the flydubai crew for their bravery during a mid-air incident on September 30.
During the interaction, the President asked Machchhar about his recovery and how long his injuries would take to heal. He then made a friendly offer to teach the Indian captain how to fight once he had recovered.
“So I have an idea. When you heal, I want to have a session with you to train you how to fight,” the President said, prompting laughter from both of them. Machchhar responded by saying, “It's my biggest honour.”
The President was also seen examining the pilot’s head injury and stitches, highlighting the seriousness of the incident. The warm exchange took place as the UAE recognised the crew’s courage and dedication.
UAE confers top honour on pilot and crew
Machchhar and the flydubai crew were awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II in recognition of their bravery during the September 30 flight bound for Tel Aviv.
During the ceremony, the UAE President also reassured the crew that they would always have a home in the country.
“There is a home for you here, and you have a family,” he told them, underlining the UAE’s appreciation for their service and courage.
The event was attended by senior officials, including Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who holds key positions in Dubai’s aviation sector.
What happened aboard the flight?
Machchhar was the captain of flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with more than 170 people on board. According to reports, he was attacked by his co-pilot using a crash axe, an emergency tool normally kept in the cockpit.
The assault left Machchhar seriously injured. Israeli officials identified the co-pilot as an Omani national, who allegedly stabbed the captain during the flight. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
The aircraft reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds during the incident, raising serious concerns about the safety of those on board.
The co-pilot was taken into custody following the incident. Machchhar initially received medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk before being transferred to Abu Dhabi for further care.
The UAE’s decision to honour the captain and his crew recognises their courage during an alarming incident. The President’s friendly exchange with Machchhar also offered a lighter moment amid the serious circumstances surrounding the attack.
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