UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan recently honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and his fellow crew members for their bravery in averting a potential terror incident on flydubai flight FZ 1073. The ceremony took place despite Captain Machchhar’s visible injuries, including stitches on his head and his left arm in a sling. The President conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew, recognising their professionalism and commitment to passenger safety.

During the event, a touching interaction occurred between Captain Machchhar and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The captain expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s my honour, Your Highness,” as he embraced the President. The President then took a moment to inspect Machchhar’s head injury and engaged him in light-hearted conversation, asking, “When will you heal?” to which Machchhar responded, “Maybe two months.”

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan further suggested, “So I have an idea. When you heal, I want to have a session with you to train you how to fight,” prompting laughter from both. Captain Machchhar replied, “It’s my biggest honour,” with a hand placed over his heart, highlighting the camaraderie and respect shared between the two.

Details of the Incident

Captain Machchhar sustained his injuries during a violent incident involving his co-pilot, Hamam Al Hammami, who allegedly attacked him with a cockpit crash axe. This resulted in a compound depressed skull fracture. The crash axe is a standard safety tool on commercial flights, required under international aviation regulations for emergencies. Following the 9/11 attacks, these axes were relocated from passenger cabins to the cockpit for enhanced security.

On the fateful flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, with over 170 passengers on board, including 24 children, the aircraft plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds after the attack. Despite his severe injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door and alert the crew. This decisive action allowed other passengers, including two off-duty pilots, to take control of the aircraft and prevent a possible crash.

The incident has drawn attention to the importance of crew training and emergency preparedness in aviation. The crew’s quick response was crucial in averting a tragedy, demonstrating their dedication to ensuring passenger safety even in life-threatening situations.

Recognition from UAE Leadership

During the award ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, presented the awards to Captain Machchhar and his team. Sheikh Hamdan praised the crew for their remarkable sense of responsibility and commitment to their duties. The event was attended by several senior officials, including His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan addressed the crew and passengers, referring to them as “family.” He reassured them, stating, “Whatever happened in your life, UAE is your country and there is a home for you here, and you have a family.” This sentiment reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting those who serve in critical roles, especially in the face of adversity.

As the aviation community reflects on this incident, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by pilots and crew members. The bravery displayed by Captain Machchhar and his team will be remembered as a testament to their dedication and professionalism in ensuring the safety of their passengers.

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