Israel to award four Flydubai passengers for foiling mid-air attack

October 1, 2026 at 01:53 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog will present four passengers of a Dubai–Tel Aviv Flydubai flight with Israel's highest civilian award for stopping a pilot who stabbed his colleague and tried to crash the plane. The passengers subdued the attacker and stabilized the aircraft before an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said their courage prevented a global catastrophe.

Key Facts

Israeli President Isaac Herzog will present Zvika Manes, Shota Musaev, Asaf Radjuan, and Yaniv Hayon with Israel's highest civilian award.
The incident began when one pilot stabbed another, causing the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly.
Captain Smith Machhar, an Indian pilot, fought the attacker and opened the cockpit door; passenger Yaniv Hayon took control of the aircraft to stabilize it.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News the passengers and wounded captain prevented a catastrophe that could have been global.
Flydubai suspended flights to and from Israel until the investigation is completed.

The Attack

The incident occurred after one pilot stabbed another pilot, and the aircraft began to lose altitude rapidly. Indian pilot Smith Machhar fought the attacker and opened the cockpit door, while Tali Manes raised the alarm. Passengers Hayon, Manes, and Radjuan entered the cockpit and subdued the attacker, risking their lives. Hayon took control of the aircraft to stabilize its flight. After the attacker was neutralized, Dr. Musaev provided vital medical assistance to the seriously wounded pilot until the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

Official Response

Israeli Air Force fighters were scrambled toward the aircraft before it landed in Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Netanyahu met with a passenger who helped neutralize the attacking pilot. Netanyahu told Fox News the passengers' actions showed enormous courage that prevented a repeat of September 11. He said the attacking pilot is under investigation in Saudi Arabia and may be sent to the Emirates. Netanyahu added that investigators will determine whether the attacker had accomplices or ties to Iran.