Jerusalem, 6 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — President Isaac Herzog will present the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism to six people who played key roles in averting disaster aboard a FlyDubai flight From Dubai to Tel Aviv, in a ceremony on Thursday.
The honorees include Israeli Passengers Yaniv Hayun, Tzvika Manes, Asaf Rajuan and Dr. Shota Musayev, who intervened after the co-pilot attacked and stabbed the captain. Hayun helped stabilize the aircraft, while Manes and Rajuan helped restrain the attacker. Musayev provided lifesaving medical treatment to the wounded captain.
Herzog will also honor Tali Manes, who first alerted passengers to the disturbance and called for assistance. Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, who fought the attacker and opened the cockpit door despite being seriously wounded, will be recognized as well.
The award is Israel’s highest civilian honor for extraordinary heroism and saving lives.