Captain Chesley Sullenberger, the pilot who safely landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009, has revealed he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
The 75-year-old shared the news publicly, stating that while he is in the early stages, he already experiences memory lapses such as forgetting names or recent stories.
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“For now, this means a name may not come easily to me, I forget a story I have recently told, or I don’t sleep as well, but I am in the beginning of this long journey,” Sullenberger said.
He emphasized the importance of speaking openly about his condition, hoping to inspire others facing similar health battles.
A Life-Saving Landing Remembered
On January 15, 2009, Sullenberger was piloting a flight with 150 passengers and five crew members when the aircraft struck a flock of birds shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport.
The collision caused a complete loss of engine thrust.
Unable to return to the airport, Sullenberger made the split-second decision to ditch the plane in the Hudson River.
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The successful emergency landing saved everyone on board and became known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.”
His story was later adapted into the 2016 film “Sully,” starring Tom Hanks.
After retiring from flying, Sullenberger worked as a corporate speaker and aviation safety expert.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, about 7.4 million Americans aged 65 and older live with clinical Alzheimer’s dementia, with roughly three-quarters aged 75 and older.
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While there is no cure, treatments are available to help manage symptoms and slow the disease's progression.
