The UAE has recognised the courage of Captain Smit Machchhar and fellow crew members of flydubai flight FZ1073 by awarding them the First Class Order of Zayed II. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the prestigious decoration in recognition of the team’s efforts to protect passengers during a serious in-flight incident on September 30, 2026. The honour highlights the crew’s professionalism, composure and commitment to aviation safety under extraordinary pressure.
What Is the First Class Order of Zayed II?
The First Class Order of Zayed II is a distinguished civilian decoration awarded in the UAE for exceptional service and significant contributions. Named after the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it recognises individuals whose actions or work demonstrate outstanding dedication and responsibility. It is separate from the Order of Zayed, another prominent UAE honour. The award given to the flydubai crew acknowledges their response to an emergency in which passenger safety was at risk.
Why Was the Flydubai Crew Honoured?
The recognition follows an incident aboard flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30. During the journey, Captain Machchhar was attacked by the co-pilot inside the cockpit. The crew and others on board intervened to bring the situation under control, helping secure the aircraft and protect those travelling on it. The pilots subsequently diverted the flight to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
Sheikh Hamdan Presents the Decoration
The medals were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. He praised the crew for their courage and sense of responsibility during the incident. UAE leaders also commended their professionalism and decisive actions, reaffirming the importance of protecting passengers and maintaining aviation security. The crew expressed gratitude for the recognition and pride in receiving the national honour.
A Recognition of Courage and Passenger Safety
The award places a spotlight on the people responsible for keeping passengers safe during an unexpected aviation emergency. The crew’s response demonstrated the importance of teamwork, sound judgement and calm decision-making in high-pressure situations. The recognition also reflects the UAE’s commitment to acknowledging exceptional service and dedication. For Captain Machchhar and his colleagues, the honour marks a significant moment following an incident that could have had far more serious consequences.
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