Chesley Sullenberger, American captain and pilot

Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger: A Legacy of Heroism, Safety, and Diplomacy

Chesley Burnett "Sully" Sullenberger III, born on January 23, 1951, stands as an iconic figure in modern aviation. A distinguished retired airline pilot and diplomat, Sullenberger gained global recognition for his extraordinary heroism as the captain of US Airways Flight 1549. On January 15, 2009, moments after takeoff from New York's LaGuardia Airport, the Airbus A320 encountered a catastrophic dual engine failure caused by a severe bird strike at approximately 2,800 feet. With both engines completely disabled and no viable options to reach an airport, Captain Sullenberger made the unprecedented decision to perform an emergency water landing – a "ditching" – into the icy waters of the Hudson River. This masterful feat of airmanship, often referred to as the "Miracle on the Hudson," resulted in the survival of all 155 passengers and crew members on board, a testament to his calm composure, decisive action, and exceptional skill under immense pressure.

His actions that day captivated the world, highlighting the critical role of pilot training, experience, and the human element in aviation safety. The incident was extensively investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which commended Sullenberger's crew resource management and his precise execution of the ditching, ensuring that the aircraft remained largely intact and facilitating the rapid rescue efforts.

A Career Dedicated to Aviation Safety and Diplomacy

From Cockpit to Commentary: A Distinguished Career in Aviation

Captain Sullenberger's journey in aviation spanned decades. Prior to the Flight 1549 incident, he had accrued over 42 years of flying experience, including service in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot. His commercial piloting career with US Airways and its predecessor, Pacific Southwest Airlines, concluded with his retirement on March 3, 2010, after 30 years of dedicated service. His profound expertise was soon sought after by major media outlets; in May 2011, CBS News enlisted him as an aviation and safety expert, where he provided insightful analysis on various aviation-related topics, further solidifying his reputation as a trusted voice in the field.

Championing Aviation Safety and Mentorship

Following the "Miracle on the Hudson," Sullenberger became a passionate and outspoken advocate for aviation safety. Drawing directly from his unparalleled experience, he has tirelessly worked to develop and promote new protocols and improvements in airline safety standards. His advocacy often focuses on areas such as:

Beyond policy and advocacy, Sullenberger also dedicated his time to inspiring the next generation of aviators. From 2009 to 2013, he served as the co-chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s Young Eagles program, alongside his Flight 1549 co-pilot, Jeffrey Skiles. The Young Eagles program offers free introductory flights to young people (ages 8-17) to foster their interest in aviation, providing them with a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flight and learn about the industry firsthand. Sullenberger and Skiles' involvement brought immense prestige and inspiration to this vital youth initiative.

Diplomatic Service: U.S. Ambassador to ICAO

Sullenberger's commitment to global aviation safety and his respected standing led him to a significant diplomatic role. On June 15, 2021, President Joe Biden announced his intention to nominate Sullenberger as the U.S. representative to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) with the rank of ambassador. ICAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to manage the administration and governance of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention). It sets international standards and recommended practices necessary for the safety, security, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of international air navigation. Sullenberger's nomination was confirmed by the U.S. Senate through unanimous consent on December 2, 2021, a rare display of bipartisan support that underscored his profound qualifications and the respect he commands across the political spectrum. He officially began his service as ambassador in February 2022, continuing to contribute his expertise on a global stage.

Literary Contributions and Global Recognition

Author of Bestselling Memoirs

Captain Sullenberger has shared his life's experiences and insights through his compelling literary works. He is the co-author, with Jeffrey Zaslow, of the New York Times bestseller "Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters," a profound memoir published in 2009 by HarperCollins. This book offers an intimate look into his life, his extensive aviation career, and the pivotal events surrounding US Airways Flight 1549, providing a deeper understanding of the meticulous preparation and split-second decisions that led to the "Miracle on the Hudson." His second book, "Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders," was published in May 2012, further showcasing his reflections on leadership, integrity, and the impact individuals can have on society.

An Enduring Icon of Influence

The profound impact of Captain Sullenberger's actions extended far beyond the realm of aviation. In 2009, Time magazine recognized his monumental courage and leadership by ranking him second in their prestigious "Time 100 Most Influential Heroes and Icons" list, placing him directly after then-First Lady Michelle Obama. This recognition solidifies his place not just as an aviation hero, but as a global icon whose actions inspired hope and demonstrated the pinnacle of human capability under duress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Captain Sully Sullenberger

What is Captain Sully Sullenberger best known for?
Captain Sully Sullenberger is best known for his heroic actions as the pilot of US Airways Flight 1549, which he successfully ditched in the Hudson River in 2009 after a bird strike disabled both engines, leading to the survival of all 155 people on board. This event is widely referred to as the "Miracle on the Hudson."
What was the "Miracle on the Hudson"?
The "Miracle on the Hudson" refers to the emergency water landing of US Airways Flight 1549 into the Hudson River on January 15, 2009. Captain Sullenberger expertly maneuvered the Airbus A320, after a dual engine failure caused by a bird strike, to land safely on the river, allowing all passengers and crew to be rescued without fatalities.
What is Sully Sullenberger's current diplomatic role?
Since February 2022, Sully Sullenberger has served as the U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). In this role, he contributes to setting global standards and practices for the safety and efficiency of international civil aviation.
Has Sully Sullenberger written any books?
Yes, Captain Sully Sullenberger is the co-author of the New York Times bestseller "Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters," a memoir detailing his life and the events of Flight 1549. He also authored "Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders."
What is the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s Young Eagles program?
The Young Eagles program, co-chaired by Captain Sullenberger and his co-pilot Jeffrey Skiles from 2009-2013, is an initiative by the EAA that provides free introductory flights to young people (ages 8-17) to inspire and educate them about the field of aviation.