Extraordinary Garuda pilot

The pilot of the Garuda Boeing 737 which made an emergency landing near Surakarta (Central Java) on Jan. 15 in the evening deserves the highest award the country can offer.

Putting down a passenger jet in a fast flowing jungle river without engine power or functioning electrical systems is an extra-ordinary feat in itself. The pilot's extremely quick and wise decision saved the lives of all but one on board.

The next time I fly Garuda it will be comforting to know that their pilots are able to cope with such adverse conditions should they arise.

STEPHEN J. FLEAY

Chiang Mai, Thailand