Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot, will receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civil Heroism for his courage during an attack aboard a passenger aircraft travelling to Tel Aviv. Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced the honour on October 8, 2026. Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty crew members to help stop the attacker. He is recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi.

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Attack Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073

The incident took place on September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was operating a flight to Tel Aviv, Israel. According to the reported details, Machchhar was attacked with an axe by his co-pilot inside the cockpit.

The cockpit, also known as the flight deck, is the area where pilots control an aircraft and manage its flight operations. An attack inside this area can create a serious risk because pilots are responsible for safely operating the aircraft.

Although Machchhar suffered severe injuries, he reportedly opened the cockpit door. This allowed passengers and off-duty crew members to enter and help overpower the attacker. His actions have been recognised as an example of courage during a dangerous situation.

Machchhar was taken for medical treatment and is recovering in Abu Dhabi. His recovery is an important consideration in the arrangements for presenting the award.

Israel Announces Presidential Award for Civil Heroism

Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced on October 8 that Machchhar would receive the Presidential Award for Civil Heroism. The award recognises civilians who show extraordinary courage while helping to save others.

Herzog said he would personally present the award to Machchhar in Israel once the pilot had recovered sufficiently to travel. The planned presentation will recognise his actions during the incident and his role in helping others respond to the attack.

The announcement has also brought attention to the role of passengers and crew members who act during emergencies. In dangerous situations, quick decisions and cooperation can help protect people and prevent further harm.

Background of the Civil Heroism Award

The Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism was established by President Isaac Herzog following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. It recognises people who demonstrate exceptional bravery in protecting others.

The award reflects the importance of civilian action during emergencies. It honours individuals who take risks to help others, including people who respond to attacks or other life-threatening situations.

Machchhar’s planned recognition is connected to the reported events aboard Flight FZ1073. His actions, despite his injuries, were highlighted in the announcement about the award.

Six Israeli Passengers Also Honoured

Six Israeli passengers who helped stop the attack aboard Flight FZ1073 will also receive the Presidential Award for Civil Heroism. They are Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov.

Their recognition highlights the role played by passengers in responding to the emergency. The reported incident required people on board to act quickly to restrain the attacker and help protect others.

The decision to honour both Machchhar and the six passengers recognises the combined efforts of people who responded to the situation. It also draws attention to the importance of cooperation when an emergency threatens the safety of passengers and crew.

US Congressman Plans Tribute to Machchhar

Machchhar is also expected to receive recognition in the United States. US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi is preparing a tribute to the Indian pilot for inclusion in the Congressional Record of the United States House of Representatives.

The Congressional Record is the official record of proceedings and debates in the US Congress. A tribute included in the record formally documents a statement or recognition by a member of Congress.

The planned tribute would add another form of recognition for Machchhar’s reported actions during the flight incident.

Isaac Herzog and Israel’s Presidency

Isaac Herzog became President of Israel in July 2021. The president is elected by the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, for a single seven-year term.

Although Israel’s president mainly performs a ceremonial and constitutional role, the office also provides a platform for recognising people and highlighting public causes. The Presidential Award for Civil Heroism is one way the presidency honours acts of extraordinary courage.

Herzog’s announcement regarding Machchhar places the Indian pilot among those being recognised for helping others during a dangerous event.

Recovery and Award Presentation

Machchhar remains under medical care in Abu Dhabi following the reported cockpit attack. The Israeli president plans to present the award in Israel after doctors consider him fit enough to travel.

The incident aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 has drawn attention to the actions of the pilot and the passengers who helped stop the attacker. The planned award recognises their reported courage and efforts to protect others during the emergency.