Haj pilgrims In Flight Diverted To Oman Describe Experience As A ‘test’ Enroute To Holy Land

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, May 5 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Haj pilgrims on flight KT051, which landed in Muscat, Oman, following a technical issue with their aircraft, described the experience as a test on their journey to the Holy Land.

One pilgrim, Afdzal Rusmi, 43, said that although there was initial shock, the situation inside the plane remained calm throughout the flight, adding that passengers were only informed about the engine issue after the plane had landed safely, which helped avoid panic among the pilgrims.

"Alhamdulillah (Praise be to God), everyone is safe. We only found out (about the matter) after landing... so the atmosphere on the plane was controlled, and we were not even aware of what had happened," he said when contacted on Tuesday.

Bernama reported today that flight MH8110, carrying 278 KT051 Haj pilgrims, was forced to make a landing at Muscat Airport, Oman, at 4:11 pm local time yesterday following a technical issue.

The flight is scheduled to continue its journey to Jeddah early Wednesday morning on an alternative aircraft.

Elaborating further, Afdzal admitted there were mixed feelings among the passengers, but most of the pilgrims accepted the situation with composure.

"We are only human; there was worry, but we consider this a test on our journey of worship," he said, emphasising that the incident did not dampen his spirit to continue the pilgrimage as a duyufurrahman (guest of Allah).

Afdzal also praised the efficiency of the AMAL by Malaysia Airlines team, who managed the welfare of the pilgrims well.

"Although there was a little confusion in the beginning, all arrangements - including accommodation and transportation - were coordinated smoothly.

“During the transit, the pilgrims were placed at the City Seasons Hotel Muscat, which provided comfortable facilities and sufficient food," he said.

-- BERNAMA