Captain Smit Machchhar to Receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will be given Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. President Isaac Herzog announced this in Jerusalem on 8th October, 2026. He credited the captain with helping prevent a major aviation disaster on flydubai flight FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

Why Is Smit Machchhar Getting Israel’s Presidential Award?

What Happened on Flight FZ1073?

On September 30, 2026, a serious incident took place in the cockpit of flydubai flight FZ1073. According to media reports, the Omani co-pilot attacked Machchhar with an axe and badly injured him. These claims are still allegations.

The Captain’s Bravery

Even with serious injuries, Machchhar opened the cockpit door. This let passengers and off-duty crew members enter and restrain the co-pilot. Reports say the plane dived sharply during the struggle. It then made an emergency landing at Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. Machchhar is still recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi. Herzog praised his courage and professionalism and said he will present the award once the captain regains his strength.

President Herzog Presented the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism to Six Individuals

At the same ceremony, Herzog honoured six Israeli passengers who helped stop the alleged attempt to crash the plane. They are Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov.

What Each Awardee Did

• Tali Manes was the first to raise the alarm.
• Yaniv Hayoun, Zvika Manes, Or Pardilov and Asaf Rajuan helped overpower the co-pilot.
• Dr Shota Musayev, a doctor, gave medical help to the injured captain.

Herzog said their quick thinking saved 174 lives. He also thanked the replacement pilots and the other passengers who helped. He added that the investigation must still continue to find full answers.

About Israel’s Presidential Award

Israel has two main presidential honours.

Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour

This is the country’s highest civil medal. It is given to people and organisations who have made an extraordinary contribution to Israel, the Jewish people or humanity. It began as the President’s Medal in 2012 under Shimon Peres. Herzog renamed it in 2022.

Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism

This is Israel’s highest civilian award for bravery. Herzog set it up after the October 7, 2023 attacks. It honours ordinary citizens who risk their lives to save others. Active-duty military, police and security personnel are not eligible.