Most difficult flight in 33 years, says captain of MH6129 aircraft

For chief pilot Captain Datuk Missman Leham, flying home the remains of 20 victims of the Malaysia Airlines (MAS) Flight MH17 aircraft tragedy on Friday, was his most difficult task since joining MAS, about 33 years ago.

He said the 12-hour flight was also the most emotional for him because he knew who the special passengers on board the MH6129 aircraft were.

Missman knew some of them personally.

"Already felt sad two, three days before the departure, because we know this is the most important flight and awaited by many, specifically for the next-of-kin of the victims," he said when met after a ceremony to honour the victims of the Flight MH17 tragedy at the KL International Airport's Bunga Raya Complex here today.

Nevertheless, Missman was thankful because the flight carrying the 20 remains was facilitated, not only in terms of fine weather and also cooperation from all countries he flew over.

He said every nation which Flight MH17 passed over gave high honour knowing the flight carried a very important cargo. "For example, in Iran. Normally, they will demand for the entry number when passing over the country, but this time, their communication came very early.

"They informed us 'no need entry number, you (aircraft) can go through'.

They were always so firm in this matter, but not on that day," he said.

Reflecting on his piloting of the aircraft, Missman said he recited the Al-Fatihah non-stop for the Muslim victims and observed a moment's silence for those of other religious denomination.

"Before we took off, I 'met' them (the remains). I talked to them, saying Hakimi (MH17 assistant pilot Ahmad Hakimi Hanapi) and friends, we will take you back. You will meet with your loved ones," he added.

Missman was assisted by Captain Bakri Othman and Captain Zaim Khalid and flight officer Yap Yoon Kong.

Asked what might have prompted him to shoulder the burden, Missman said it was probably because MAS wanted a senior pilot to fly the aircraft.

Since he was given the instruction, Missman prayed continuously for a smooth and uneventful flight.

"God willing, my prayers were answered," he said.

The MH17 aircraft, with 298 passengers and crew from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was believed to have been shot down in the Donetsk region, east Ukraine on July 17.

A total 43 Malaysians were killed in the incident.