The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and Fijian pilot Henson Steven with the First Class Order of Zayed II, recognising their courage and efforts to protect passengers during a serious mid-air emergency aboard a flydubai flight on September 30, 2026.
The incident occurred on flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, when the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar in the cockpit, leaving him seriously injured. The crew’s response helped prevent a potential tragedy and ensured the aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
Crew Recognised for Courage and Professionalism
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received the crew members in the presence of Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The leaders praised their courage, professionalism and commitment to passenger safety.
The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, who commended the crew’s actions and sense of responsibility.
Steven, a Fijian pilot and former Fiji Airways pilot, was travelling aboard the aircraft as a reserve pilot. According to reports, he and another pilot helped take control of the aircraft after the attack, diverting it to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia for a safe landing.
Captain Machchhar’s Actions Helped Protect Passengers
Despite suffering serious injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing other crew members and passengers to intervene and restrain the attacker. The aircraft reportedly lost altitude during the struggle before the pilots regained control.
All passengers and crew survived the incident. Captain Machchhar initially received treatment in Tabuk before being transferred to Abu Dhabi for further medical care and recovery.
On October 6, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi said the captain was making steady progress and recovering, adding that it remained in contact with his family, doctors and local authorities to provide assistance.
International Recognition for the Flight Crew
Captain Machchhar’s actions also drew praise from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The UAE honours recognise the collective efforts of the flight crew and those who intervened during the emergency. Their actions helped secure the aircraft and protect the lives of those on board, highlighting the importance of courage, teamwork and responsibility in a critical situation.
