The United Arab Emirates has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew for their courage during a cockpit incident on September 30, when the seriously injured captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene and help avert a potential tragedy.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew members involved in the incident. The honour recognises their efforts to protect passengers and secure the aircraft during the emergency.
The recognition comes amid widespread international praise for Machchhar, whose actions have drawn tributes from leaders in India, the UAE, Israel and the United States. Israel has also announced a civilian bravery award for the Indian captain, to be presented after he recovers from his injuries.
SHEIKH HAMDAN PRESENTS HONOURS
The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, also received the crew members on Tuesday.
The UAE leadership praised the crew’s courage and professionalism in protecting passengers and securing the aircraft, reaffirming that safeguarding people’s safety and security remains a priority for the country.
The crew members thanked the UAE President and expressed pride in receiving the honour.
Sheikh Hamdan had earlier visited Machchhar while he was receiving treatment for his injuries on October 3. Praising the captain’s courage and sense of responsibility, he said Machchhar had demonstrated the highest degrees of courage, responsibility and care for human life.
“From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise,” Sheikh Hamdan said in a social media post.
He added that the UAE was proud to have Machchhar as part of its team and national story, describing the country as “a nation of compassion … a nation of peace … and a nation of life”.
The visit followed the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority’s commendation of Machchhar, the crew and the passengers who helped bring the incident under control. (India Today)