On emergency landing

On emergency landing

I was very disturbed by the article in The Jakarta Post on
Sept. 9 regarding the recent emergency landing of Garuda flight
601 at Makassar and would like some clarification from Garuda
about this matter.

The article describes engine trouble with a rapid drop in
cabin air pressure and that few oxygen masks in the aircraft were
functioning. It goes on to describe how all passengers and
stewardesses were panicking and screaming.

I can understand that mechanical problems occur occasionally
on aircraft. But this article leaves me wondering just what level
of safety procedures Garuda employs on its aircraft and with its
flight attendants. Screaming and panicking stewardesses and lack
of functioning oxygen masks would certainly make me want to
return to Jakarta by different means as the article describes.

Although, after that type of experience I would probably
consider rowing home as Garuda's competition does not instill a
lot of confidence either.

Would a senior official from Garuda please respond and assure
the flying public that you do have proper emergency procedures
and functioning safety equipment, and an associated training
program for flight attendants?

MICHAEL BRADY

Jakarta