Two Kenyan cabin crew members, David Kimotho and John Muchina, have been honoured by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for their actions during a mid-air emergency aboard a Flydubai flight that was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on September 30, 2026.
The two received the First Class Order of Zayed II, conferred by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in recognition of the crew’s efforts to protect passengers during the incident. Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the honours on Tuesday, October 27.
The ceremony recognised the courage and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the crew members during the emergency aboard Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel.
The incident unfolded when the aircraft’s co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain, leaving him seriously injured and triggering a struggle inside the cockpit. Kimotho and Muchina helped attend to the injured captain and maintain order in the cabin as crew members and passengers responded to the unfolding crisis.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737 MAX, experienced a sudden loss of altitude as the situation developed, prompting an emergency response on board. Passengers and other crew members helped restrain the co-pilot, while additional pilots travelling on the aircraft assisted in stabilising the plane.
The flight was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in north-western Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Passengers and crew were accounted for following the landing, while the injured captain received medical attention.
The recognition by the UAE highlights the role played by Kimotho and Muchina in responding to an emergency that threatened the safety of passengers and crew aboard the aircraft. Their actions during the crisis were acknowledged as part of the wider effort to bring the situation under control and ensure the flight landed safely.
The First Class Order of Zayed II is among the UAE’s honours for individuals recognised for exceptional service. By awarding the two Kenyans, the UAE formally acknowledged their contribution during an incident that required a rapid response under dangerous and uncertain circumstances.
For Kimotho and Muchina, the honour marks international recognition of their conduct during the September emergency, placing their actions at the centre of a story that drew attention to the responsibilities cabin crew carry beyond routine passenger service, particularly when an aircraft faces an unexpected crisis.
