zoom_in Click to enlarge

Brian Shul

▲ ▼

description Brian Shul Overview

Brian Shul was a pilot in the United States Air Force who served during the Vietnam War and the Cold War. He survived severe combat burns after his aircraft was shot down over Vietnam, but successfully returned to active flight duty. Shul is most widely recognized for his assignments piloting the SR-71 Blackbird, a strategic reconnaissance aircraft, towards the end of his military career. Following his retirement, he became a professional photographer and speaker, frequently sharing stories of his aviation experiences.

help Brian Shul FAQ

How did Brian Shul return to flying after being badly burned in Vietnam?

Shul survived the crash of his attack aircraft near the end of the Vietnam War and underwent extensive treatment for severe burns. Despite being told that he would not fly again, he passed the required medical and flight evaluations and returned to USAF cockpit duty.

Which SR-71 missions did Brian Shul fly?

Shul flew operational reconnaissance missions in the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird with pilot Walter Watson serving as his reconnaissance systems officer. The aircraft operated above 80,000 feet and could exceed Mach 3.

Is Brian Shul the pilot behind the famous speed-check story?

Yes, Shul popularized the story in which an SR-71 crew reports a ground speed of more than 1,900 knots after hearing slower aircraft request their own checks. The anecdote became known as the Los Angeles Speed Check story, though retellings sometimes alter its wording.

Which book contains Brian Shul's SR-71 photographs?

Shul published his photographs and recollections in Sled Driver: Flying the World's Fastest Jet. He also collaborated with fellow SR-71 crew member Walter Watson on The Untouchables.