Israeli President Isaac Herzog plans to recommend four flydubai passengers for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after their courageous actions prevented a potential disaster on a flight from Dubai to Israel. The passengers—Yaniv Hayoun, Dr. Shota Musayev, Zvika Manes, and Asaf Rajuan—played a crucial role in subduing an attacker involved in a confrontation within the aircraft’s cockpit.
The incident reportedly started when one pilot attacked the other, resulting in injuries to the assaulted pilot. In response to the emergency, Hayoun, Manes, and Rajuan helped to restrain the attacker, with Hayoun also assisting with the aircraft’s controls. Dr. Musayev provided crucial medical assistance to the injured pilot, ensuring their safety until the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
President Herzog expressed his admiration for the passengers’ bravery and swift response, which he believes were instrumental in safeguarding the lives of everyone on board. Additionally, Herzog commended the actions of the Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, for his role during the incident.
The President intends to present the actions of these passengers to the advisory committee responsible for selecting recipients of the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, highlighting the significant impact of their intervention during the flight crisis.