Abu Dhabi, Oct. 3 -- UAE Deputy Prime Minister Hamdan bin Mohammed met flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar in hospital and expressed "appreciation and praise" for his heroic actions during a mid-air attack on the Tel Aviv-bound flight on September 30.

The Deputy Prime Minister hailed the Indian pilot for his bravery, while highlighting the responsibility and care showcased by him during the attempted crash.

Calling the UAE a "nation of life", the Deputy Prime Minister expressed pride in Captain Machchhar being part of the "story of our nation."

"During a visit to Captain Smit Machchhar. the flydubai pilot who embodied the highest degrees of courage, responsibility, and care for human life. From us, and from the leadership of the nati...