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Israel to Present Civilian Heroism Award to Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar for Bravery During Mid-Flight Attack

Israel will award flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar for heroism during an in-flight attack by his co-pilot.

Mahbeez Parbeen | | 2 min read

Israel to Present Civilian Heroism Award to Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar for Bravery During Mid-Flight Attack
Source: BT

In Brief

  1. Israeli President will honour pilot Smit Machchhar for his bravery during a mid-air attack.
  2. Machchhar prevented a plane crash after his co-pilot stabbed him.
  3. The incident occurred on a flight operated by flydubai.
  4. The award recognises exceptional civilian heroism in crisis situations.

Israel is set to honour Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who works for the Dubai-based airline flydubai, with a civilian heroism award, announced by the President on Thursday, 8 October 2026. The recognition follows a harrowing incident where Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot mid-flight.

During the flight, the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar in an apparent attempt to crash the plane. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to regain control and safely land the aircraft, preventing a potential tragedy.

The Israeli President announced this award to acknowledge exceptional courage shown by Machchhar under life-threatening circumstances. This honour highlights the pilot's quick thinking and bravery, which protected the lives of all onboard. Flydubai confirmed the incident and expressed support for their pilot. Authorities are investigating the motives behind the co-pilot's actions. The award ceremony aims to inspire recognition of civilian heroism in emergencies globally.


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