JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — People flying out of Jacksonville international Thursday, including one who was delayed due to the tragic plane crash over Washington, tried to process this devastating event. They told Action News Jax the main goal now is to be close to their families, while expressing sympathy for those who lost loved ones in the crash.
It’s being reported the crash happened around 9 p.m. with 60 passengers and four crew members on board the commercial flight, while three soldiers were in the military helicopter.
WATCH: Army helicopter, plane crash: See impact caught on video, hear air traffic control (graphic warning)
Among the many affected, one Jacksonville flyer had his flight delayed due to the incident.
“I was going from Jacksonville to Philadelphia, and it got delayed because the plane was going through DCA,” said Noah Mazy.
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We spoke with several other travelers who were shaken by the news, and they all had similar questions.
“I wonder how it had happened,” said Rodger Putman.
“I’m not quite sure how a government chopper is in the airspace of a commercial flight. It seems like a pretty big blunder, and I’m not understanding how it’s even possible in America,” Mazy said.
The National Transportation Safety Board reports that the last fatal crash involving a U.S. commercial airline occurred back in 2009 in New York. For many, this tragedy brings up concerns about aviation safety.
WATCH: NTSB briefing on its investigation into plane, helicopter crash in DC
“You know, they might change their mind about flying today,” Putman said.
However, despite the tragic news, many flyers still want to get home and continue their journeys.
“I want to get in the air, get home—get home till about 1 AM in the morning,” said one Jacksonville traveler.
“It’s unfortunate. Prayers go out to their friends and family members. I’ve been devastated over this. I just hope the FAA can get it together at some point,” said traveler Brett Klein.
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. We will continue to bring you updates as more information becomes available.
Read: Army helicopter, plane crash: What we know about the victims
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