President honours flydubai crew with First Class Order of Zayed II

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 29, 2026

President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to the flydubai crew involved in the September 30 in-flight incident that required diverting flight FZ1073 to Tabuk for passenger safety. This prestigious civilian honor highlights the crew's exceptional professionalism and courage, reinforcing the UAE's dedication to recognizing outstanding service in critical situations.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Zayed II to the flydubai crew involved in the in-flight incident on September 30. The ceremony took place in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.

The crew members, who operated flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, were honoured for their professionalism and courage during the incident, which necessitated diverting the flight to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The flight carried 174 passengers alongside eight crew members at the time.

The awards were presented by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council. He praised the crew for their sense of responsibility and steadfast actions to ensure the safety and security of all passengers on board.

During the ceremony, UAE leaders emphasized the importance of prioritizing passenger safety and commended the crew for their commitment in a challenging situation. The recipients expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting that the honour reflects their dedication to service and commitment to public safety.

Also in attendance were senior officials including Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.

The First Class Order of Zayed II is one of the United Arab Emirates’ most prestigious civilian decorations. Named after the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the nation’s founding father, the award is typically conferred by the President to diplomats and individuals whose distinguished service has made significant contributions to the country or its international relations. Unlike other recipients who have been recognised for diplomatic achievements, the flydubai crew was honoured specifically for their decisive actions during a life-threatening aviation emergency.

This recognition underscores the UAE’s ongoing commitment to acknowledging outstanding service and safeguarding human life, marking the crew’s efforts as a notable example of professionalism and courage in the aviation sector.

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