Chesley Sullenberger


Full Name and Common Aliases


Chesley Burnett "Sully" Sullenberger III is the full name of this renowned American aviator.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on January 23, 1951, in Denison, Texas. As of my last update, he is still alive.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: American
Profession(s): Airline Captain, Aviator, Safety Expert

Early Life and Background


Chesley Sullenberger grew up in a family that valued education and hard work. His father was a lawyer, and his mother was a former schoolteacher. From an early age, Sully showed an interest in aviation, and this passion only grew stronger as he entered adulthood.

Sullenberger attended the United States Air Force Academy, graduating in 1973 with a degree in physics. He then went on to fly F-4 Phantom II fighter jets for the United States Air National Guard before transitioning to civilian life and becoming an airline captain. This blend of military service and commercial aviation experience would eventually contribute to his remarkable skills as a pilot.

Major Accomplishments


Sully's career is marked by numerous accomplishments, but one event stands out above the rest: the Miracle on the Hudson. On January 15, 2009, Sullenberger was at the controls of US Airways Flight 1549 when it took off from New York City's LaGuardia Airport bound for Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. Shortly after takeoff, both engines failed due to a bird strike. With incredible composure and skill, Sully guided the plane onto the Hudson River, executing an emergency landing that saved all 155 passengers and crew on board.

Notable Works or Actions


Sullenberger has been involved in several notable endeavors since the Miracle on the Hudson. He:

Authored two bestselling books: _Higher and Higher_ (2009) and _Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders_ (2012)
Testified before Congress about airline safety regulations
Advocated for improved aviation safety measures, including enhanced weather forecasting and bird-strike prevention systems

Impact and Legacy


The Miracle on the Hudson has had a lasting impact on air travel. It led to changes in safety procedures, including the development of more advanced weather radar systems and bird-detection technologies.

Sullenberger's actions also raised awareness about the importance of pilot training and expertise. His reputation as an exceptional aviator has made him a sought-after speaker and consultant.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Chesley Sullenberger is widely quoted and remembered for his:

Heroism: His selfless actions on January 15, 2009, saved countless lives.
Leadership: He demonstrated exceptional composure and decision-making skills in the face of extreme danger.
Passion for Aviation Safety: Sully's dedication to making air travel safer has inspired a new generation of pilots, engineers, and policymakers.

As an aviation icon, Chesley Sullenberger continues to inspire and educate people around the world. His story is a testament to the power of human resilience and determination.

Quotes by Chesley Sullenberger

I took my first flying lesson in 1967, when I was 16. By October 1968, I had 70 hours in the air and got my pilot's license.
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I took my first flying lesson in 1967, when I was 16. By October 1968, I had 70 hours in the air and got my pilot's license.
When I testified before Congress after the Hudson River landing, Congressman James Oberstar of Minnesota said, 'Safety begins in the boardroom.' That's as true in medicine as it is in aviation. It always boils down to leadership.
"
When I testified before Congress after the Hudson River landing, Congressman James Oberstar of Minnesota said, 'Safety begins in the boardroom.' That's as true in medicine as it is in aviation. It always boils down to leadership.
For years, I tried to resist the hero label.
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For years, I tried to resist the hero label.
It's an important job to be the public face of something that gives people hope, and I take that seriously.
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It's an important job to be the public face of something that gives people hope, and I take that seriously.
After high school in 1969, I was appointed to the Air Force Academy. In '73, I studied for my postgraduate degree and became a USAF pilot in 1974. After my discharge in 1980, I became a commercial pilot and flew my first airline flight at Pacific Southwest Airlines in 1980.
"
After high school in 1969, I was appointed to the Air Force Academy. In '73, I studied for my postgraduate degree and became a USAF pilot in 1974. After my discharge in 1980, I became a commercial pilot and flew my first airline flight at Pacific Southwest Airlines in 1980.
In the bad old days, captains were not good leaders. They didn't build teams; they were arrogant and autocratic.
"
In the bad old days, captains were not good leaders. They didn't build teams; they were arrogant and autocratic.
I'm less shy now than I was as a kid. After Flight 1549, my family and I had to become public figures and more complete versions of ourselves. I had to teach myself to become an effective public speaker.
"
I'm less shy now than I was as a kid. After Flight 1549, my family and I had to become public figures and more complete versions of ourselves. I had to teach myself to become an effective public speaker.
It's almost an out of body experience to see things that First Officer Jeff Skiles and I said in the cockpit together, played by actors.
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It's almost an out of body experience to see things that First Officer Jeff Skiles and I said in the cockpit together, played by actors.
I try to work out, time permitting, wherever I am.
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I try to work out, time permitting, wherever I am.
Bigger airplanes, with two aisles instead of one, provide a better experience overall, and I think it's more comfortable.
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Bigger airplanes, with two aisles instead of one, provide a better experience overall, and I think it's more comfortable.
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