UAE honours pilot Smit Macchar for saving 180 lives; receives highest distinction for extraordinary courage

Dubai (The Uttam Hindu): The cockpit of an aircraft turned into the scene of a life-threatening attack, with the plane plunging thousands of feet and the lives of passengers hanging in the balance. In recognition of the extraordinary courage and sense of duty displayed during the crisis, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has honoured flydubai Captain Smit Macchar. The captain and the crew of Flight FZ1073, who played a crucial role in saving the lives of passengers and fellow crew members, have been awarded the First-Class Order of Zayed II. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised their courage and dedication.

On Tuesday, the president met the crew members, with Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also present. Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the honour to the crew. UAE leaders commended them for prioritising passenger safety and fulfilling their duties under extremely difficult circumstances.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. A serious violent incident in the cockpit put control of the aircraft and passenger safety at risk. As the situation deteriorated, the plane had to be diverted towards Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. Captain Smit Macchar sustained serious injuries during the incident.

In an interview with The National, Captain Macchar said the co-pilot had attacked him several times even before he could open the cockpit door. Initially, he thought a part of the aircraft had broken off and struck his head. He soon realised, however, that he was being attacked by a member of his own crew.

The repeated blows caused his vision to blur, making it difficult to see clearly. He could make out only indistinct shapes around him. Despite his condition, he did not give up and tried to free himself from his seat belt to escape the assault.

Despite his serious injuries, Captain Macchar attempted to reach the cockpit door handle and called out to his colleagues. During this effort, he lost consciousness and collapsed inside the cockpit. His condition was critical, but his attempt to reach and open the door proved important in the subsequent response.

According to the captain, the aircraft plunged approximately 17,000 feet during the incident. One of the most terrifying moments came when he heard and felt the effects of the aircraft's engines shutting down. Safely managing the plane under such circumstances was extremely challenging, but the crew did not lose courage.

According to the report, Captain Macchar managed to open the cockpit door. Other crew members and passengers then entered and restrained the co-pilot. The co-pilot reportedly attacked the captain with an axe and attempted to force the aircraft into a dive.

Emergency landing in Saudi Arabia saves all 180 people on board

Given the seriousness of the situation, an emergency hijacking alert was transmitted from the aircraft. The flight subsequently made an emergency landing in Tabuk. The aircraft landed safely, and all 180 people on board were rescued. The incident demonstrated how the crew's presence of mind, courage and quick decisions can save lives during a crisis.

Despite going through such a traumatic experience, Captain Macchar's passion for aviation remains undiminished. Speaking to The National, he said the incident had not taken away his love of flying. He said, “Has my love for aviation gone? Absolutely not. Not at all. I am just happy that I was able to do my duty.”

His words reflect how passenger safety and the fulfilment of his responsibilities remained his priorities despite serious injuries and a life-threatening situation.

Following the incident, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan had visited Captain Macchar while he was receiving treatment. He praised the captain's courage, sense of responsibility and determination to save lives. In a post on social media platform X, Sheikh Hamdan wrote that Captain Macchar represented the UAE's values of compassion, peace and placing the highest importance on human life. He added that the country was proud of people like him.

Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has also announced plans to confer a Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism on Captain Macchar. The recognition from both the UAE and Israel stands as a testament to his courage and dedication. His efforts to save passengers during an extremely dangerous situation have made him an example of extraordinary bravery.