Garuda pilots show integrity

We have all watched and listened to the tragedy surrounding Garuda Indonesia flight GA 152 over the past few days. I would like to add a few words regarding the living.

Dealing with the loss of loved ones or friends is one of the top three stressful events a human being may endure. Yet the pilots of Garuda Indonesia who have survived this tragedy have done so in a manner which is noteworthy.

Both in the printed and electronic media, including CNN, the surviving pilots have shown professionalism, dedication and loyalty.

When queried by CNN regarding pilot error, the response by a Garuda pilot was: "a lot of events cause an airline to crash not only pilot error."

When interviewed by newspapers one Garuda pilot, after mentioning the deceased pilot's exemplary service, stated: "... it is too premature to know what happened."

These are just two examples but the pilots stood by their friend.

Now, as we receive more data regarding the crash, it looks like they were right to stand by their colleague, even when the chips were down. The pilot questioningly followed (erroneous) directions from the tower, exactly as they have been educated to do.

Based on this finding, it appears the results of the still missing flight data recorders will clarify that the pilot flew his jet into the ravine only to learn, as he thought, that he had been erroneously guided.

Last July, I scheduled my wife to come to Jakarta from Los Angeles on board Garuda Indonesia. I am happy that I have made the correct decision with my choice of pilots.

For the 39 years I have had the pleasure of living, one thing has stood out: people of integrity always do the right thing (and sometimes at great detriment to themselves).

The pilots of Garuda Indonesia have shown nothing but integrity over the past few days. I am certain my wife will be in good hands.

MARK TEMPLE

Jakarta