UAE President Honors flydubai Captain Smit Machhar with 'Order of Zayed II'

Why in the News?

Indian pilot **Captain Smit Machhar** of flydubai has been honored with the UAE's prestigious **'Order of Zayed II' (First Class)** by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for displaying extraordinary courage and saving 174 passengers and crew members during a mid-air cockpit emergency.

Key Features / Major Points:

- High-Level Recognition: UAE President **Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan** warmly embraced and felicitated Captain Smit Machhar at a grand ceremony attended by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and royal family members.

- The In-Flight Incident: On September 30, during a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, a grave cockpit threat emerged. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Captain Smit demonstrated exceptional presence of mind, enabling crew and passengers to subdue the threat and safely land the aircraft.

- Crew Commendation: Alongside Captain Smit, other crew members were also awarded medals by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed for their exemplary quick thinking and professionalism.

- International Acclaim: In recognition of his bravery, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended an invitation to both PM Narendra Modi and Captain Smit Machhar to light a torch during Israel's Independence Day celebrations.

Static GK Facts:

- United Arab Emirates (UAE):

- Capital: Abu Dhabi | Currency: UAE Dirham (AED).

- President: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

- 'Order of Zayed II': A esteemed UAE civilian and military decoration conferred for exceptional bravery, service, and contribution.

- flydubai: A government-owned low-cost airline headquartered in Dubai, UAE.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: Which Indian flydubai pilot was honored with the UAE's 'Order of Zayed II' award for saving 174 lives?

A: Captain Smit Machhar

Q: What is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?

A: Abu Dhabi

Q: Where is the headquarters of flydubai located?

A: Dubai, UAE

Q: Which foreign leader invited PM Narendra Modi and Captain Smit Machhar to light a torch on Independence Day?

A: Prime Minister of Israel (Benjamin Netanyahu)

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