UAE Honours Two Kenyan Cabin Crew for Heroic Response to Mid-Air Emergency

Two Kenyan cabin crew members, David Kimotho and John Muchina, have been honoured by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for their response during a mid-air emergency aboard a Flydubai passenger aircraft in September.

The two were among crew members awarded the Order of Zayed II, First Class, by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in recognition of their efforts to protect passengers during the life-threatening incident.

The honours were presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum alongside other senior UAE officials.

What happened aboard the Flydubai flight?

The incident occurred on September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel.

The Boeing 737 was carrying more than 170 passengers and crew members when a violent confrontation erupted in the cockpit, leaving the captain seriously injured and forcing the aircraft to divert.

According to an update issued by the UAE Attorney-General on October 9, investigators found that the Omani co-pilot had allegedly planned to seize control of the aircraft and carry out a suicide attack targeting the passenger terminal at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

The Attorney-General said the captain was attacked with an emergency axe while the plane was in flight. The captain reportedly resisted the assault and attempted to call for help as the situation escalated.

A pilot travelling aboard the aircraft who was assigned to operate its return flight became suspicious after noticing unusual movements near the cockpit door. He intervened after gaining access, with assistance from a cabin crew member and several passengers.

How the Kenyan crew members responded

Kimotho and Muchina rushed to assist the injured captain as the emergency unfolded. They assessed his condition, helped position him safely and worked to maintain order among passengers.

Footage recorded inside the aircraft captured crew members speaking in Swahili as they checked on the captain and attempted to provide assistance.

Their efforts took place as other crew members and passengers worked to restrain the co-pilot and secure the cockpit.

The pilots eventually regained control of the aircraft and diverted it to Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.

Flydubai later confirmed that all 172 passengers and crew members were safe and accounted for. The injured captain received medical treatment and subsequently returned to the UAE after being cleared by doctors.

UAE recognises crew’s bravery

The UAE’s decision to honour the crew members recognises their role in responding to an emergency that investigators said involved an alleged plan to seize the aircraft.

The Order of Zayed II is a UAE civil decoration awarded in recognition of distinguished service and significant contributions.

Kimotho and Muchina’s inclusion among the recipients highlights the role played by cabin crew in protecting passengers and assisting injured colleagues during emergencies.

Following the incident, Flydubai said it was cooperating with authorities investigating the circumstances surrounding the flight. The airline also temporarily suspended flights to and from Israel while the investigation continued.