Captain Smit Machhar receives highest honour, UAE President embraces him, bestows ‘Order of Zayed II’

Flydubai’s Captain Machhar, who defied death in the sky and saved hundreds of innocent lives, has been awarded Dubai’s prestigious honour, the Order of Zayed II, First Class. When Captain Smit, with a brace on his injured arm, arrived at the ceremony with his crew, everyone was filled with pride and respect at the passion and dedication of this true hero.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), embraced Captain Machhar. Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and members of the royal families of both emirates were also present. The captain and crew of flydubai were honored on this occasion.
On September 30th, during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the Omani co-pilot suddenly attacked the cockpit, intending to destroy as many lives as possible. In this terrifying and horrific situation, Indian Captain Smit Machhar, despite being seriously injured himself, displayed indomitable courage and exceptional presence of mind..(updated on 27th October 2026)