KUALA LUMPUR, June 28 — The AirAsia X pilot under criticism for asking passengers to pray after his plane experienced engine problems was calm and reassuring throughout, according to one passenger from the flight.

Madeline Wright said she and her family were on board when the incident occurred on Sunday and forced the plane to return to Perth 90 minutes after departure.

"It disgusts me that people are criticising our captain for telling us to pray and are trying to get him fired. The full context was, 'Everything is under control in the cockpit. If you want to say a prayer, that might help too',” she posted online.

"He was professional. He was human. He was a reassuring voice during this event and gave us hope, he is the reason I am still alive and I cannot thank him enough.”

Former minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim was among those who criticised the pilot and airline over the remarks, telling AirAsia to hire priests and clerics if condoned such action.

AirAsia group executive chairman Datuk Kamaruddin Meranun yesterday hit back at Zaid, saying there was nothing wrong with seeking divine intervention.

On Sunday, the AirAsia flight with 359 passengers onboard was forced to return to Perth 90 minutes into the journey, after it suffered an engine problem that caused the aircraft to vibrate "like a washing machine”, according to passengers.

The plane landed safely and without casualties following the 90-minute return trip, although some passengers were reportedly traumatised by the experience. 

Australian and Malaysian transport authorities are both investigating the incident, as are AirAsia and engine maker Rolls Royce.