Dubai Crown Prince says the captain embodies the nation’s core values after thwarting an onboard cockpit attack aboard flight FZ1073
DUBAI, October 3, 2026 : Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar on Saturday, commending his composure and bravery in safeguarding passengers during a violent cockpit security incident earlier this week.
Captain Machchhar is receiving specialized medical care in the United Arab Emirates after surviving an attack by his co-pilot at cruising altitude aboard flight FZ1073 on September 30.
Sheikh Hamdan, who serves as the UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, praised the captain’s swift actions under extreme duress. Writing on social media following the visit, the Crown Prince said Machchhar demonstrated the highest degrees of courage, responsibility, and devotion to human life.
“From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “We are proud that he is part of our team, part of the story of our nation, and part of what the UAE stands for: a nation of compassion, peace, and life.”
The mid-air crisis unfolded en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv as the Boeing 737 MAX 8 traversed regional airspace. The co-pilot attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit, causing the aircraft to lose altitude sharply before the captain managed to unlock the flight deck security door.
Flight attendants, passengers, and off-duty airline crew travelling aboard responded immediately. They entered the flight deck, restrained the assailant, and provided urgent first aid to Machchhar while relief pilots assumed control of the controls. The crew coordinated an emergency diversion to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, landing safely without passenger casualties. Machchhar was treated locally before authorities arranged his medical transfer back to the UAE.
The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority commended Machchhar, the cabin crew, and the passengers whose collective interventions prevented catastrophe. Federal aviation regulators confirmed the captain remains in stable condition and is undergoing ongoing treatment.
Criminal proceedings and technical inquiries are advancing. Under directives issued by the UAE Attorney-General, a dedicated task force from the Public Prosecution is managing the investigation. Judicial authorities confirmed they are collaborating with regional and international agencies while maintaining procedural integrity and evidence security.
