# Indian Pilot Wins Israel's Civilian Heroism Award

> Indian pilot Smit Machchhar receives Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after preventing a Flydubai flight hijacking attempt.
- Title: Indian Pilot Wins Israel's Civilian Heroism Award | Shortify
- Summary: Indian pilot Smit Machchhar receives Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after preventing a Flydubai flight hijacking attempt. Indian pilot Smit…
- Keywords: smit machchhar, israel, presidential award, civilian heroism, flydubai flight, hijacking attempt, cockpit attack, co-pilot, axe, emergency landing, abu dhabi, india
- Source: Financialexpress — https://financialexpress.com/india-news/indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-to-receive-israels-presidential-award-for-civilian-heroism/4357817
- Author: FE News Desk
- Published: 2026-10-09T15:44:21+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: smit machchhar, israel, presidential award, civilian heroism, flydubai flight, hijacking attempt, cockpit attack, co-pilot, axe, emergency landing, abu dhabi, india
## Israeli President Announces Award
Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism.
## Prevented Hijacking Attempt
Captain Machchhar prevented a Flydubai Flight FZ1073 hijacking attempt on September 30 when his co-pilot attacked him with an axe.
## Cockpit Door Unlatched
Despite severe injuries, Captain Machchhar unlatched the cockpit door to allow passengers and crew to restrain the attacker.
## Aircraft Emergency Landing
The aircraft dropped 16,000 feet in two minutes before landing safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia with all 180 passengers unharmed.
## Israeli President's Tribute
Herzog said Captain Machchhar's actions averted a catastrophe and he would honor him once he fully recovers.
## Pilot's Recovery Update
Captain Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi after sustaining severe injuries and is making steady progress with medical support.
## Award Presentation Planned
Israel will present the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism to Captain Machchhar once he recovers sufficiently.
## Key takeaway

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar will receive Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism for preventing a Flydubai flight hijacking attempt with his co-pilot.