UAE President Shaikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has awarded Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar the First Class Order of Zayed II for his bravery during a cockpit emergency in September.
Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was also present at the ceremony.
Dubai Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the honour, praising the flight crew’s courage and professionalism.
Captain Machchhar was physically attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit, but he managed to unlock the door so crew members and passengers, including two off-roster pilots, could intervene and take control of the plane.
The pilot successfully landed the aircraft safely following the incident.
Captain Machchhar is the third Indian national and the first Gujarati recipient of the prestigious UAE honour.
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