Captain Sully Reflects: 15 Years After Miraculous Landing, Flying Is Now at Its Safest

Fifteen years ago, on this day, a miraculous event unfolded on the Hudson River when US Airways Flight 1549, under the command of Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger III, made an emergency landing after hitting a flock of geese. This event, forever remembered as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” resulted in all 155 passengers and crew being safely evacuated. Captain Sully recently sat down with USA TODAY to reflect on this historic moment and share insights into the current state of aviation safety.

Reflecting on the “Miracle on the Hudson”

When asked about that fateful day, Captain Sully expressed surprise at how long the story has endured in public memory. The emergency landing, caused by a sudden loss of both engines, required quick thinking and a plan of action. Sully had to fly the plane while devising an unprecedented solution to a problem he had never trained for. He credited the successful outcome to the collaborative efforts of the entire crew, air traffic controllers, and first responders, emphasizing the community effort that saved every life on board.

Evolution of Aviation Safety

Captain Sully discussed the wake-up call the industry received from the Miracle on the Hudson, emphasizing the strides made in aviation safety. The commercial aviation sector has achieved over a decade without a single crash in the United States, showcasing the industry’s commitment to safety. However, he highlighted the challenge of predicting future safety issues as aviation evolves. Sully stressed the importance of viewing aviation as a noble calling, requiring dedication and passion for continuous learning from all professionals involved.

Boeing 737 MAX 9 Incident

Regarding the recent Boeing 737 MAX 9 incident, Captain Sully emphasized the need for vigilance in catching and correcting errors before they lead to harm. He underscored the shift from defining safety as the absence of accidents to a more proactive approach. Sully expressed concern about missed details in the design, manufacturing, maintenance, and operation of aircraft, highlighting the need for continuous evaluation and improvement.

Role of AI in Aviation Safety

Captain Sully discussed the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving aviation safety. He suggested that AI could assist in analyzing vast amounts of data collected in aviation, identifying trends, and detecting potential issues. By leveraging AI, the industry could enhance its ability to proactively address safety concerns, ensuring a more comprehensive and reliable approach to aviation safety.

Challenges in Air Traffic Control

Air traffic control (ATC) also came under scrutiny, with Captain Sully highlighting serious understaffing issues. He pointed out that overworked air traffic controllers could lead to fatigue-related mistakes, emphasizing the need for recruitment, training, and proper staffing levels. Captain Sully called for a reassessment of the number of flights being operated and urged political will to address long-term challenges in ATC.

Advice for Nervous Travelers

Captain Sully reassured travelers that it is an ultra-safe time to fly, with the chances of being in an aircraft accident being infinitesimal. He encouraged passengers to wear their seatbelts throughout the flight and pay attention to safety demonstrations, emphasizing personal responsibility in ensuring one’s safety during air travel.

In conclusion, Captain Sully’s reflections provide valuable insights into the progress and challenges in aviation safety, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement, collaboration, and a proactive approach to addressing emerging issues.