Captain Sully Sullenberger Diagnosed with Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease

Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, renowned for his heroic emergency landing on the Hudson River in 2009, announced his diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Sullenberger shared this news via a social media post, explaining that the condition currently affects his memory and sleep, such as forgetting recent stories or encountering difficulty with remembering names.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent cause of dementia, progressively impairs memory and cognitive skills. Unfortunately, it remains incurable. Sullenberger’s quick decision-making during the “Miracle on the Hudson” incident saved 155 people aboard US Airways Flight 1549 on January 15, 2009, after both engines failed due to a bird strike shortly after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. Realizing an airport landing was not possible, he skillfully executed an emergency water landing on the Hudson River. Thanks to the efficient evacuation and swift response by first responders, all passengers and crew were rescued safely.

The extraordinary event gained widespread attention, later inspiring the 2016 film “Sully.” Sullenberger has since become an aviation safety advocate and served as an expert commentator for CBS News.

Upon learning of his diagnosis, Sullenberger discovered the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s disease, with over 7 million Americans affected. He expressed hope that sharing his diagnosis would encourage others to be open about their experiences, emphasizing the need for collective courage to face the disease. He remarked, “Courage can be contagious,” recalling the teamwork during the aircraft’s emergency landing, and urged collective courage in battling Alzheimer’s.