New Delhi, October 2026 : Israeli President Isaac Herzog has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary courage in averting a potential catastrophe aboard a Flydubai aircraft, describing him as a hero of Israel, India and humanity. Herzog has announced that Machchhar will receive Israel’s highest civilian honour for bravery, the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, after recovering from his injuries.
In a letter to the Indian pilot, Herzog drew a parallel between Machchhar’s actions and those of Indian soldiers who risked their lives more than a century ago to liberate cities in the Holy Land.
“Your heroics place you in the distinguished ranks of Indian troops, who risked their lives over 100 years ago to liberate cities in the Holy Land, forever becoming a part of Israel’s history,” Herzog wrote.
He added that Machchhar would also become a cherished part of Israel’s history, further strengthening the longstanding warmth and ties between India and Israel.
The Israeli President said the pilot had received his letter over the weekend. In a post on social media platform X, Herzog reiterated his admiration for Machchhar and conveyed his wishes for the pilot’s full and speedy recovery.
“Captain Smit Machchhar, you are a hero of Israel, India, and all of humanity!” Herzog wrote.
He said he looked forward to welcoming the Indian pilot to Jerusalem once he regained his strength. Herzog added that he would be honoured to present Machchhar with the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism on behalf of the people of Israel.
In his letter, Herzog also acknowledged the pilot’s ability to respond decisively under extreme pressure. He said Machchhar’s courage, judgement and determination in confronting an immediate threat to his life reflected exceptional strength of character.
“Your ability to find the strength to rise above the pain, to combat the immediate threat to your life, and to operate sound judgment demonstrates the strength of your character and the great valour you possess,” the Israeli President wrote.
Herzog had announced the decision to honour Machchhar on Friday, recognising the Indian pilot’s role in preventing a possible disaster aboard the Dubai-Tel Aviv Flydubai flight. According to the account provided, Machchhar confronted an attacking co-pilot and helped save the lives of all 174 people on board.
“Captain Machchhar’s sheer courage and bravery and sound professionalism helped avert a catastrophe,” Herzog said while announcing the award.
He also extended heartfelt wishes for the pilot’s recovery, saying it would be a privilege to recognise his actions formally once he regained his strength.
The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by aviation professionals and the importance of sound judgement during emergencies. According to a probe by authorities in the United Arab Emirates, Hamam Al-Hammami, the co-pilot of the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, attacked Machchhar with a crash axe kept in the cockpit.
UAE authorities have described the incident as a “terrorist attack”.
Herzog’s announcement underscores Israel’s recognition of Machchhar’s actions and highlights the close relationship between India and Israel. The planned award ceremony in Jerusalem will formally honour the Indian pilot for his courage and professionalism in helping avert a catastrophe and protect the passengers and crew aboard the aircraft.
