Israeli President to Recommend Heroism Award for Passenger on Fly Dubai Flight

Israeli President Isaac Herzog will recommend Tali Mans for the Presidential Medal of Distinction for her actions during an incident on a Fly Dubai flight. New testimonies indicate that Mans was the first to alert passengers to the unfolding events in the cockpit and call for help. Her actions, according to the President's Residence, prompted other passengers to assist.

Following Mans' initial warning after hearing violence and commotion from the cockpit, she also alerted pilots in the rear of the plane to help regain control. The President's Residence stated that the decision to recommend her for the award came after additional testimonies highlighted her significant role in managing the incident and saving passengers.

Mans is to be added to the list of four other Israelis already nominated for the award. These individuals are being recognized for their bravery and for risking their lives to save others. President Herzog had previously expressed his appreciation for their actions in separate conversations.

The incident involved an attacker in the cockpit. According to the President's Residence, pilot Machear struggled with the assailant and managed to open the cockpit door. After Mans raised the alarm, passengers Yeniv Hayoun, Zvika Mans, and Assaf Rejwan rushed to help, entered the cockpit area, and assisted in subduing the attacker. Hayoun also helped stabilize the aircraft's controls until additional pilots arrived.

After the attacker was neutralized, Dr. Shota Musayev provided medical treatment to the severely injured captain, helping to stabilize him until the plane made an emergency landing in Tabuk. The passengers were later returned to Israel on a replacement flight.

The Presidential Medal of Distinction for Civilian Heroism honors citizens who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and risked their lives to save others. Cases are reviewed by an advisory committee before the President makes a final decision on awarding the medal.