The Smit Machchhar bravery award announcement recognises the Indian captain’s role in preventing a potential aviation disaster after he was attacked inside the cockpit of a flydubai aircraft travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced that Machchhar would receive the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, Israel’s highest civilian honour for bravery. The announcement came during a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem on Thursday, October 8, where six passengers from the flight were recognised for helping stop the attacker.
Herzog praised Machchhar’s courage and professionalism, saying his actions helped avert a catastrophe. He said it would be an honour to present the award personally once the captain had recovered sufficiently.
Passengers Help Stop Attack on Flight 1073
The incident occurred on September 30 aboard flydubai Flight 1073, which was carrying 172 passengers and crew members. According to the report, Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot, identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, in an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft.
Six passengers—Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov—received the civilian bravery award for their role in stopping the attack.
Machchhar is recovering in a hospital in the United Arab Emirates and is reportedly making steady progress. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have also praised his actions.
Herzog Calls for Global Cooperation Against Terrorism
During the ceremony, Herzog highlighted the importance of international cooperation in confronting terrorism. He said people from different countries had worked together to protect those aboard the aircraft, demonstrating the importance of collective action when lives are at risk.
The Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism was established by Herzog after the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel. It recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage, risk their lives and act to save others.
The recognition of Machchhar and the six passengers highlights the role of both professional training and civilian intervention in preventing loss of life during a crisis.
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