On September 30, 2026, flydubai flight FZ 1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv was attacked by co‑pilot Hamam al‑Hammami who brandished a crash axe. Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, opened the cockpit door and alerted the crew, prompting four passengers – a plumber, a banker, an insurance owner and a dentist – to subdue the assailant and stabilize the aircraft.
The award ceremony took place on October 27, 2026 at the UAE Presidential Palace. Crown Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the First Class Order of Zayed II to Machchhar and his crew, saying, "Their bravery and professionalism set a benchmark for all aviation personnel."
The honor underscores the UAE’s commitment to operational safety and recognizes the vital role of international talent in safeguarding passengers. Captain Machchhar, who has flown more than 3,000 hours for flydubai, said he felt "deeply humbled" by the recognition.
In a statement, the Ministry of Civil Aviation announced it will review cockpit security protocols and strengthen crew training following the incident. The review will include mandatory psychological screening for all flight attendants and pilots.
For the passengers, the event was a wake‑up call. Yaniv Hayun, the plumber who first tackled the attacker, gave a tearful interview, saying the flight crew’s calm saved his life.