What Happened to Chesley Burnett 'Sully' Sullenberger III?
Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger is an American retired airline pilot, diplomat, and aviation safety expert, best known for safely landing US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009, an event dubbed the 'Miracle on the Hudson'. Following his retirement from commercial flying, he became a prominent advocate for aviation safety, an author, and served as the U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). As of July 2026, Sullenberger has publicly announced his diagnosis with early-stage Alzheimer's disease and is slated for induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September 2026.
Quick Answer
Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, the hero pilot of the 'Miracle on the Hudson,' retired from commercial flying in 2010 and has since dedicated his career to aviation safety advocacy, public speaking, and authorship. He served as the U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) from 2022 to 2022. In July 2026, Sullenberger announced he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, choosing to speak publicly about his condition to encourage others. He is also scheduled to be inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September 2026.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Born in Denison, Texas
Chesley Burnett Sullenberger III is born in Denison, Texas, where he would later develop an early interest in aviation.
Learns to Fly
Sullenberger learns to fly an Aeronca Champion 7DC at a private airstrip near his home, marking the beginning of his lifelong aviation career.
Graduates USAF Academy and Joins Air Force
Graduates from the United States Air Force Academy, receiving the Outstanding Cadet in Airmanship award, and begins service as a fighter pilot.
Begins Commercial Pilot Career
After serving in the Air Force, Sullenberger joins Pacific Southwest Airlines, which was later acquired by US Airways, starting his 30-year commercial flying career.
The 'Miracle on the Hudson'
As captain of US Airways Flight 1549, Sullenberger successfully ditches the Airbus A320 in the Hudson River after a bird strike causes a dual engine failure, saving all 155 people on board.
Publishes 'Highest Duty'
Sullenberger co-authors his memoir, 'Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters,' detailing his life and the events of Flight 1549, which becomes a New York Times bestseller.
Retires from US Airways
After 30 years as a commercial pilot, Sullenberger retires from US Airways, with his final flight reuniting him with co-pilot Jeffrey Skiles and some Flight 1549 passengers.
Hired by CBS News
Sullenberger is hired by CBS News as an aviation and safety expert, continuing his advocacy for flight safety on a national platform.
Biographical Film 'Sully' Released
Clint Eastwood directs the major motion picture 'Sully,' based on Sullenberger's memoir, with Tom Hanks starring as the pilot. The film receives critical acclaim.
Nominated as US Ambassador to ICAO
President Joe Biden nominates Sullenberger to serve as the U.S. Representative to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Begins Service as US Ambassador to ICAO
Sullenberger presents his credentials and officially begins his role as the U.S. Ambassador to ICAO, serving until July 1, 2022.
15th Anniversary Reunion of Flight 1549
Sullenberger, co-pilot Jeff Skiles, and several passengers reunite in New York City to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 'Miracle on the Hudson'.
Announces Alzheimer's Diagnosis
Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger publicly announces that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, stating his intent to speak openly about his experience.
National Aviation Hall of Fame Induction
Sullenberger is scheduled to be inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to aviation.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Chesley Burnett Sullenberger III, born on January 23, 1951, in Denison, Texas, developed a passion for aviation early in life, learning to fly gliders at age 14 and powered aircraft at 16. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1973, receiving the Outstanding Cadet in Airmanship award, and served as a fighter pilot flying F-4 Phantom II jets until 1980. His military career included accident investigation duties, laying the groundwork for his future expertise in aviation safety. After his Air Force service, Sullenberger joined Pacific Southwest Airlines, which later became part of US Airways, embarking on a 30-year career as a commercial pilot.
Sullenberger became a household name on January 15, 2009, when, as captain of US Airways Flight 1549, he successfully performed an emergency water landing on the Hudson River after a bird strike disabled both engines shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport. All 155 passengers and crew survived the incident, which became widely known as the 'Miracle on the Hudson.' His calm demeanor and expert decision-making under extreme pressure were lauded globally, earning him numerous accolades, including the French Legion of Honour and a Congressional resolution recognizing his bravery.
Following his retirement from US Airways in March 2010, Sullenberger transitioned into a prominent role as an aviation safety advocate, author, and public speaker. He co-authored the New York Times bestseller 'Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters' (2009), which was later adapted into the critically acclaimed 2016 film 'Sully,' starring Tom Hanks. He also published 'Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders' in 2012. Sullenberger continued to contribute to aviation safety as a CBS News aviation and safety expert from 2011.
In June 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Sullenberger to be the U.S. Representative to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), with the rank of ambassador. He was confirmed by the Senate in December 2021 and served in this diplomatic role from February 3 to July 1, 2022, where he championed U.S. leadership in global aviation safety, security, and environmental standards. Upon reentering private life, he resumed his work as a keynote speaker and continued his advocacy for global air travel safety and democratic principles.
In a significant personal announcement on July 14, 2026, Sullenberger, at 75 years old, revealed that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. He stated his intention to speak openly about his journey, hoping to inspire other families facing similar challenges. Despite this diagnosis, Sullenberger remains active and is scheduled to be inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September 2026, recognizing his lifelong contributions to aviation.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Chesley Burnett 'Sully' Sullenberger III made different choices?