Former Airline Captain and Aviation Hero Says He Is Living With Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease 
Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the retired airline pilot celebrated worldwide for safely landing US Airways Flight 1549 on New York's Hudson River in 2009, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
The 75-year-old aviation icon shared the news in a public statement, saying he and his family decided to speak openly about the diagnosis to help raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and encourage others to seek medical evaluation if they notice symptoms of cognitive decline.
Sullenberger said the diagnosis has been challenging but emphasized that he remains optimistic and determined to use his platform to support Alzheimer's research, improve public understanding of the disease, and advocate for early detection and treatment.
"While this diagnosis is difficult, I am grateful that it was identified early," Sullenberger said. "My family and I are committed to facing this journey together, and I hope sharing my experience will encourage others to seek help without fear or stigma."
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from aviation professionals, public officials, healthcare advocates, and millions of people who remember his heroic actions during one of the most remarkable emergency landings in aviation history.
Hero of the 'Miracle on the Hudson'
Captain Sullenberger became an international symbol of professionalism and calm under pressure on January 15, 2009, when US Airways Flight 1549 struck a flock of Canada geese shortly after taking off from New York's LaGuardia Airport.
With both engines disabled, Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles quickly determined they could not safely return to an airport. Instead, Sullenberger executed a controlled emergency landing on the icy Hudson River.
All 155 passengers and crew survived the accident, a feat widely praised as one of the greatest examples of skill and decision-making in modern aviation. The event became known as the "Miracle on the Hudson" and later inspired the 2016 Hollywood film Sully, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks.
Raising Awareness About Alzheimer's
By publicly disclosing his diagnosis, Sullenberger hopes to increase awareness of Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, which affects millions of people worldwide. The progressive neurological disorder gradually impairs memory, thinking, and daily functioning.
Medical experts emphasize that while there is currently no cure, early diagnosis can provide patients with access to treatments that may help manage symptoms, as well as opportunities to participate in clinical research and plan for future care.
Advocates say high-profile figures speaking openly about Alzheimer's can help reduce stigma surrounding the condition and encourage families to seek support sooner.
Legacy Beyond Aviation
Since retiring from commercial aviation, Sullenberger has remained active as a public speaker, author, aviation safety advocate, and ambassador for transportation safety. He has also served in diplomatic roles and has frequently spoken about leadership, crisis management, and public service.
His legacy continues to extend far beyond the cockpit, with his actions on Flight 1549 often cited in leadership courses, emergency response training, and aviation safety programs around the world.
Supporters across the aviation community have praised Sullenberger for once again demonstrating courage—this time by sharing his personal health journey publicly in the hope of helping others facing similar challenges.
As he begins this new chapter, Captain Sully said his focus remains on spending time with his family, supporting Alzheimer's awareness efforts, and continuing to inspire others through resilience, honesty, and service.