Smit Machchhar to receive Israel's top bravery award; President Herzog reserves special honour for India's
- Posted on October 9, 2026
- By Business News Today
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- 1 min read
In brief
Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot operating for flydubai, has been recognized by Israel's President Herzog with the prestigious Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. On September 30, the courageous pilot thwarted a potential mid-air crisis when his co-pilot attempted a hijacking. Despite sustaining critical injuries during the violent confrontation, Machchhar heroically breached the cockpit door, enabling crew and passengers to subdue the aggressor. His swift actions prevented a potential catastrophe, earning him international acclaim for exceptional bravery.
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Smit Machchhar to receive Israel's top bravery award; President Herzog reserves special honour for India's
Indian flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will receive Israels Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism for his bravery during an alleged mid-air hijacking attempt on September 30. Despite sustaining severe injuries in an attack by his co-pilot, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty crew members to restrain the attacker. He is currently recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital.
