Israeli President Isaac Herzog plans to recommend four passengers from a flydubai flight for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after they helped avert a potential disaster. The flight, traveling from Dubai to Israel, faced a serious threat when one pilot attacked the other in the cockpit, leading to an emergency situation.
The passengers, identified as Yaniv Hayoun, Dr. Shota Musayev, Zvika Manes, and Asaf Rajuan, played crucial roles in managing the crisis. Hayoun, Manes, and Rajuan managed to subdue the attacker, with Hayoun also stepping in to assist with the aircraft’s controls. Meanwhile, Dr. Musayev provided medical care to the injured pilot until the plane could make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
President Herzog commended the passengers for their bravery and quick action, which he noted were instrumental in safeguarding the lives of everyone on board. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, whose actions were pivotal during the incident.
Herzog intends to bring the passengers’ heroic actions to the attention of the advisory committee that evaluates candidates for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. This prestigious recognition is reserved for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage in civilian life.