How good is Chesley Sullenberger?

Chesley Sullenberger has a Lunoo score of 9.7/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

Where does Chesley Sullenberger rank on Lunoo?

Chesley Sullenberger is ranked #4 in Lunoo's Best Aviator rankings with a score of 8.9/10.

What are the best alternatives to Chesley Sullenberger?

Visit lunoo.com/alternatives/chesley-sullenberger to see top-ranked competitors with objective AI-powered scores and side-by-side comparisons.

zoom_in Click to enlarge

Chesley Sullenberger

8.88

Great

▲ ▼

Aviator Safety American Air Force Commercial Pilot Miracle Hudson

description Chesley Sullenberger Overview

Chesley Sullenberger was a U.S. Airways captain renowned for his decisive actions during the January 2009 Hudson River landing. His skillful piloting of Flight 1549 following dual engine failures due to bird strikes averted a catastrophic disaster involving all 155 passengers and crew. This event highlights exceptional aviation expertise and remains a significant case study for emergency response training within the broader commercial airline industry and for pilots globally.

insights Why this score

Chesley Sullenberger ranks #3 of 195 in the Aviator ranking, behind Charles Lindbergh, ahead of Amelia Earhart.

help Chesley Sullenberger FAQ

What happened on US Airways Flight 1549?

On January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 struck a flock of Canadian geese, causing dual engine failures shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport. Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger successfully glided the Airbus A320 to a safe water landing in the Hudson River. All 155 people on board survived the event.

Where exactly did Chesley Sullenberger land Flight 1549?

Sullenberger landed the aircraft in the middle of the Hudson River near Midtown Manhattan in New York City. The successful ditching occurred in freezing temperatures right alongside busy commercial ferry routes. The proximity to the ferry terminals allowed local boats to reach the sinking plane and rescue passengers within minutes.

Was Chesley Sullenberger forced to retire after the crash landing?

Sullenberger officially retired from commercial aviation in March 2010, roughly a year after the famous Hudson River landing. He retired from US Airways as a Captain after a distinguished 30-year career in aviation. Following his retirement, he became a prominent author and aviation safety advocate.

Who played Sully in the movie about the Hudson River landing?

Academy Award-winning actor Tom Hanks portrayed Chesley Sullenberger in the 2016 biographical drama film titled "Sully". The movie was directed by Clint Eastwood and was based on Sullenberger's autobiography, "Highest Duty". It focuses heavily on the intense NTSB investigation that initially questioned his decision to ditch in the river.