UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan received FlyDubai's injured Indian captain, Smit Machchhar. (WAM)
UAE President honors FlyDubai pilot, crew over alleged plot
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- The honor was presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum
- UAE prosecutors determined that the co-pilot intended to stage a suicide attack inspired by the September 11, 2001, attacks in US
- The pilot, Machchhar, received international commendation
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan has awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to a FlyDubai pilot and crew members who claimed to save passengers during an alleged attempted hijacking aboard a flight bound for 'Israel' last month.
The medal was conferred in recognition of their “courage and professionalism in ensuring the safety of passengers and securing the aircraft,” according to the Emirates News Agency.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum presented the honor to the crew, praising their high sense of responsibility and dedication during the alleged emergency on September 30.
The recognition comes after UAE prosecutors claimed on October 9 that an official investigation alleged the co-pilot had planned to execute a suicide attack inspired by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States.
Read more: Netanyahu says one flydubai pilot wanted to crash plane
The pilot, Captain Machchhar, has drawn widespread praise globally for his actions.
Leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended his courage in averting a catastrophe and preserving civilian lives.
In addition, 'Israeli' President Isaac Herzog sent Machchhar a letter of appreciation and announced plans to confer 'Israel'’s presidential award for civilian heroism upon him once he completes his recovery.
