Dubai: Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, who was injured during a serious incident aboard a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.

The Boeing 737 MAX 8, operating as flydubai flight FZ1073, was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after an altercation broke out inside the cockpit while the aircraft was in flight.
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan praised Captain Machchhar for his courage, professionalism and determination to protect the passengers and crew during the incident.
Sheikh Hamdan said Machchhar had demonstrated the “highest levels of courage, responsibility, and care for people's lives.” He also conveyed the appreciation of the UAE leadership and described the Indian pilot as a source of pride.
“Proud that he is part of our team, part of our nation's story and part of our human experience in the United Arab Emirates — homeland of love, homeland of peace, homeland of life,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates, accompanied Sheikh Hamdan during the visit.
The visit follows the release of findings from the UAE investigation into the incident. According to the investigation, the flight's co-pilot attempted to carry out what authorities described as a “terrorist act” while the aircraft was airborne. The co-pilot allegedly assaulted Captain Machchhar with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
flydubai CEO praises crew and passengers
flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith expressed his deep gratitude to Captain Machchhar, the crew and other pilots involved in safely securing the aircraft and completing the emergency landing.

He also thanked passengers who assisted the crew during the challenging situation.
“We will continue to provide everyone affected with the support they need,” Al Ghaith said.
UAE officials praise Indian pilot
UAE diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash also praised Captain Machchhar for his actions during the incident.
Gargash said the pilot demonstrated courage and responsibility in confronting what he described as a dangerous terrorist act and a situation that could have resulted in a major disaster.
He also stressed the importance of vigilance against extremism and terrorism and cautioned against spreading conspiracy theories surrounding the incident.
On October 3, Gargash described the incident as a “new warning”, saying that the region's struggle with extremism continues and that justifying terrorism through hate speech remains part of the danger.
Modi hails Machchhar as a hero
Captain Machchhar has also received recognition in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian pilot for his courage and determination to protect the lives of passengers.
In a statement on October 1, Modi said Machchhar showed “immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others” despite suffering serious injuries.
Modi said the pilot's bravery helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy, expressing pride in his actions and wishing him a speedy recovery and good health.