What the Passengers Experienced
Passengers came forward to share their stories after the emergency landing with family, friends, and the media-a diverse collection of perspectives on the event. For many, it had been a transforming experience, close calls with death that reminded them what life was all about. Others described the intense emotions as they prepared to meet their maker, and still others reported immense relief and gratitude once safely on the ground.
For those on board, this experience gave them a new appreciation for life, for their family and for simple pleasures in life that one normally forgets. Some of the passengers were reunited with their loved ones while others even re-assessed their life upon realizing the second chance given to them. In reporting their ordeal, they heard of the professionalism of the pilot along with the crew members ensuring that things did not worsen into a full-blown tragedy.
These common experiences not only revealed the emotional toll but also the bonding possibility of having to overcome the consequences together. Strangers became bonded after experiencing this life-changing event together. And they found community and bonding long after the flight had ended because of their experience.
