Something is definitely off with American flights these days. Just a few days ago, on Jan 29, more than 50 people died when an Army helicopter collided with a commercial flight scheduled to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Less than a month after that horrific incident, Jennifer Lee Chan, a 49ers reporter for NBC, experienced another harrowing incident in San Francisco.

On Saturday, she reported that their plane had to take off again immediately after the pilot noticed other planes on the runway. She even questioned what was going on, as she wrote, “Thank you to our pilots for keeping us safe but WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON???” That was scary.

While her followers were concerned, she provided a more positive update a few hours later. Announcing that she had landed safely, Jennifer explained that she had seen several instances where a flight had to circle before landing. However, Lee Chan also noted that she expected air traffic control (ATC) to be more alert due to recent flight accidents.

On January 29, 2025, one of the deadliest air collisions in American history occurred, with all passengers aboard both flights losing their lives. Bodies fell into the Potomac River as the nation reeled in shock. So, when the 49ers reporter tweeted about her experience, people feared another accident might happen.

Even the fans were concerned when they read her X update. Flashbacks of the recent updates filled their mind. They flooded social media with messages of safety and support.

Fans pray for the safety of 49ers reporter Jennifer Lee Chan

Jennifer’s update pointed towards the casual approach of the ATC, despite the 29 Jan incident. One fan called the ATC (Air Traffic Control) a joke as it could not verify if the runway was free for the plane to land, and wrote, “It is becoming a joke. Glad you and the other passengers are safe tho.” Another person also had the same sentiment that the situation was worsening. He mentioned, “So glad you and all the passengers are safe. This is truly getting scary/concerning. Hug your family a little tighter today❤💛.”

However, some people quickly gave Jennifer Lee Chan some hope and confidence in the ATC system. One person wrote, “I’m glad you’re safe. It seems like a regular occurrence go-around. You just may not always see it. Also, more ‘on alert’ can lead to more mistakes not less. Trust that pilots and controllers are doing their level best and they’re very well trained.” The comment is right, though. Being more alert can avert tragedies, indeed.

Another person also joined in as backup. He even gave instances from Canada and mentioned, “Glad you’re safe. Each incident is separate, none have been shown to be interconnected, including a recent pilot error in Canada. It’s tempting to think otherwise, but it’s simply not true.” One person just kept his message short and simple in 5 words that read, “Glad you’re safe JLC!”

It’s great that her flight didn’t meet with an accident. No one would like to lose their loved ones in such a gloomy scenario.