Stranded sailor saved, thanks to jet passengers

SYDNEY, Australia (WHDH) -- Beaming Glenn Ey is back on solid land, welcomed with a tearful embrace from mom and dad after a remarkable rescue at sea.

"I was very, very concerned. You do think your number is up,” said Ey.

Last week the 44-year-old sailor was 270 miles off the coast of Sydney, Australia when he faced stormy seas and a monster 70-foot wave flipped his yacht.

"A huge wave just picked me up and just rolled me over. The boat flooded with water,” he said.

The veteran sailor righted his capsized craft. With no sails and fuel running out, he activated his emergency beacon, hoping someone would find him.

It turns out his rescue came thanks to sharp eyed strangers. Passengers aboard an Air Canada jumbo jet, diverted en route from Vancouver. Passengers were asked by their captain to look out their window. Several spotted the tiny craft in the ocean.

With his location pinpointed, a rescue boat eventually arrived. It was a two-day mission that was filled with anxiety for one mom.

"Our prayers have been answered. That's what I said to him."

As for Glenn, he said the little things seem pretty wonderful right now.

"After a week or so or two weeks something like a milkshake is extremely appealing,” said Ey.