Chesley Burnett "Sully" Sullenberger III, born on January 23, 1951, is a distinguished American diplomat and revered retired airline pilot. He rose to international prominence for his extraordinary heroism as the captain of US Airways Flight 1549, a pivotal event in aviation history that earned him global recognition.

The Miracle on the Hudson: A Definitive Moment

On January 15, 2009, Captain Sullenberger was at the helm of US Airways Flight 1549, an Airbus A320, departing from New York City's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) en route to Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT). Shortly after takeoff, at a low altitude, the aircraft encountered a catastrophic bird strike involving a flock of Canada geese. This severe impact resulted in the complete and simultaneous loss of power in both engines.

Faced with an unprecedented emergency and unable to reach any nearby airport for an emergency landing due to the aircraft's altitude and rapid descent, Captain Sullenberger, along with his co-pilot Jeffrey Skiles, executed an incredibly precise and controlled water landing. They glided the powerless jetliner into the frigid waters of the Hudson River, specifically off Midtown Manhattan.

Remarkably, this audacious maneuver led to the survival of all 155 people aboard—150 passengers and 5 crew members. The rapid response of nearby ferries and boats, whose crews sprang into action, facilitated the successful rescue of everyone on board, with only a few individuals sustaining serious injuries. This unparalleled water landing of a commercial jetliner, with no fatalities, quickly became known worldwide as "The Miracle on the Hudson."

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted a thorough investigation into the incident. Their findings unequivocally supported Sullenberger's decision, concluding that attempting to return to LaGuardia or divert to nearby Teterboro Airport would have resulted in a catastrophic outcome. An NTSB official famously described the ditching as "the most successful ditching in aviation history," a testament to the crew's exceptional skill and composure under extreme pressure.

In recognition of their "heroic and unique aviation achievement," Captain Sullenberger, First Officer Skiles, and the flight attendants of Flight 1549 were collectively awarded the Master's Medal of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators. The indelible story of Flight 1549 and Sullenberger's actions were dramatized in the critically acclaimed 2016 film "Sully," where he was portrayed by Academy Award winner Tom Hanks.

A Continuing Legacy: Aviation Safety Advocacy and Public Service

Following the events of Flight 1549, Captain Sullenberger retired from US Airways on March 3, 2010, concluding a distinguished 30-year career as a commercial pilot. He subsequently became a prominent and outspoken advocate for global aviation safety, leveraging his unique experience to contribute to the development of new protocols and improvements designed to enhance airline safety worldwide.

From 2009 to 2013, Sullenberger served as the co-chairman, alongside Jeffrey Skiles, of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s Young Eagles program. This initiative is dedicated to inspiring and introducing young people to the world of aviation, fostering the next generation of pilots and aerospace professionals.

In May 2011, Sullenberger's expertise was sought by CBS News, where he was hired as an aviation and safety expert, providing informed commentary and analysis on critical issues within the airline industry.

Acclaimed Author and Influential Figure

Sullenberger is also an accomplished author. His memoir, "Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters," co-authored with Jeffrey Zaslow, became a New York Times bestseller upon its publication in 2009 by HarperCollins. The book offers a deeply personal account of his life and the dramatic events surrounding US Airways Flight 1549. He followed this success with his second book, "Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders," released in May 2012.

His impact and influence were recognized by Time magazine, which ranked him second only to then-First Lady Michelle Obama in its "Top 100 Most Influential Heroes and Icons of 2009" list.

Diplomatic Service: U.S. Ambassador to ICAO

Demonstrating his continued commitment to public service and global aviation, 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. The ICAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for setting international standards and recommended practices necessary for the safety, security, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of international air navigation.

Sullenberger's nomination was met with broad support, and he was confirmed by unanimous consent in the U.S. Senate on December 2, 2021. He officially assumed his duties as U.S. Ambassador to ICAO in February 2022, continuing his dedicated efforts to ensure the highest levels of safety and cooperation in global air travel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sully Sullenberger

What is Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger best known for?

Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger is primarily renowned for his heroic actions as captain of US Airways Flight 1549, when he successfully ditched the aircraft in the Hudson River in 2009 after both engines failed, saving all 155 people on board. This event is widely known as "The Miracle on the Hudson."

How many people survived US Airways Flight 1549?

All 155 people aboard US Airways Flight 1549—150 passengers and 5 crew members—survived the emergency water landing in the Hudson River.

What is Sully Sullenberger's current role?

As of February 2022, Sully Sullenberger serves as the U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations that sets international standards for civil aviation.

Has the "Miracle on the Hudson" been depicted in a film?

Yes, the events of US Airways Flight 1549 and Sully Sullenberger's role were dramatized in the 2016 biographical drama film "Sully," starring Tom Hanks in the titular role.