Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced on Thursday that Indian pilot Smit Machchhar will receive the Visisht Gujarat Garima Award after he thwarted a hijack attempt on a Flydubai flight to Israel, stabbing the co‑pilot and saving 174 passengers. Stabbed.
During the flight, the co‑pilot attempted to crash the plane. Captain Machchhar responded by subduing the assailant before the aircraft could spiral out of control.
Patel praised the captain on X, writing, "The courage of Captain Smit Machchhar ... saved the lives of 174 passengers—an inspiring feat."
A special prayer was held at the Somnath temple, where the trust performed a Mahamrityunjaya Mantra Japa for the pilot's recovery.
Though born in Gujarat, Machchhar's family moved to Mumbai years ago, and he currently resides there.
The captain is receiving medical care in Saudi Arabia, and state officials continue to monitor his condition closely.
Officials plan to present the award during a ceremony in Gandhinagar, while the pilot will remain in Saudi Arabia for ongoing treatment.