UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the flydubai crew members of flight FZ1073
ABU DHABI: UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on flydubai crew members for their bravery during a serious in-flight security incident on September 30, 2026.
The honour recognises the crew’s decisive actions in protecting passengers and securing the aircraft during an emergency aboard flydubai flight FZ1073. The incident involved an alleged attempt by a co-pilot to seize control of the aircraft.
Sheikh Hamdan Presents Prestigious UAE Honour
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, presented the awards to the crew members.
Sheikh Hamdan praised their courage, professionalism and sense of responsibility during the emergency. The crew expressed gratitude to the UAE President and described their pride in receiving the national honour.
Senior officials attended the ceremony, including Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
What Happened on flydubai Flight FZ1073?
The incident occurred aboard a flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.
According to UAE prosecutors, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
Despite sustaining injuries, the captain managed to open the cockpit door. Crew members and passengers subsequently restrained the suspect and helped secure the aircraft.
Authorities launched an investigation into the attempted attack, which placed passengers and crew at serious risk.
Impact to Expect
The presidential recognition highlights the importance of aviation security, emergency preparedness and coordinated crew responses. It also reinforces the UAE’s commitment to passenger safety and acknowledges aviation professionals who act decisively during emergencies.
