Abu Dhabi, Oct. 29: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and members of the flydubai crew for their courage and professionalism during a cockpit emergency on September 30. The injured captain reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene and help prevent 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 bravery and efforts to protect passengers and maintain aircraft safety during the emergency.
UAE Honours Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar for Courage
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 Dubai’s Executive Council.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also received the crew members on Tuesday in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The UAE leadership praised their professionalism and commitment to passenger safety under difficult circumstances.
The crew members expressed gratitude to the UAE President for the recognition and said they were proud to receive the honour.
Machchhar has also received international appreciation for his actions. Israel has announced a civilian bravery award for the Indian captain, which is expected to be presented after he recovers from his injuries.
Earlier, on October 3, Sheikh Hamdan visited Machchhar while he was receiving medical treatment. During the visit, the Crown Prince praised the captain’s courage, composure and sense of responsibility during the emergency.
Sheikh Hamdan said Machchhar had demonstrated exceptional bravery and concern for human life. He also conveyed the UAE leadership’s appreciation for the captain’s actions and described the country’s values as rooted in compassion, peace and respect for human life.
The recognition followed the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority’s commendation of Machchhar, the flight crew and passengers who helped bring the cockpit incident under control.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews and Follow Our Youtube Channel on Google
