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Survivor of Miracle on the Hudson reflects on flight one decade later

In light of the ten year anniversary of the flight, Rad Berky caught up with passenger Jay McDonald.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Ten years ago, January 15, 2009, lives were changed forever with the Miracle on the Hudson. One of the survivors, Jay McDonald, met NBC Charlotte's Rad Berky shortly after. The two have stayed in touch ever since.

In light of the ten year anniversary of the flight, Rad Berky caught up with McDonald.

McDonald recalls what it was like to be on board Flight 1549 heading toward Charlotte, as the flight didn't make it that far. 

"There was a feeling that something bad had happened," McDonald said.

He said the crisis moment from him was when they heard Captain Chesley Sullenberger say the now famous words, "Brace for impact."

RELATED: 'Brace for impact:' Remembering the Miracle on the Hudson

McDonald remembers the rescue boat arriving and dropping down a rope ladder, not long after they emergency landing in the Hudson River.

"We just shimmied up that thing and got out of the way for the next person to come up," McDonald said.

He says passengers and crew were able to walk away safe because of the plane itself and "everybody acting responsibly and selflessly."

McDonald says every time he thinks back on that day it gives him a renewed appreciation for life. 

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