📖 Overview
Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger is a former airline pilot, safety expert, and author best known for successfully executing an emergency water landing of US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River in 2009, saving all 155 people aboard.
Prior to his career in commercial aviation, Sullenberger served as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force from 1973 to 1980. He later became a commercial pilot for Pacific Southwest Airlines and US Airways, accumulating over 20,000 flight hours throughout his career.
Following the Hudson River landing, Sullenberger authored several books including "Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters" and "Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders." He has also worked as an aviation safety expert, public speaker, and consultant, contributing to various safety initiatives within the airline industry.
Since retiring from commercial aviation in 2010, Sullenberger has served on various aviation safety boards and committees, including his appointment by President Joe Biden as U.S. Representative to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization in 2021.
👀 Reviews
Readers praise Sullenberger's straightforward writing style and focus on leadership principles. His books resonate with both aviation enthusiasts and general readers seeking insights on decision-making under pressure.
What readers liked:
- Clear explanations of technical concepts
- Personal stories that illustrate leadership lessons
- Detailed account of his life experiences beyond the Hudson River landing
- Focus on preparation and professional dedication
What readers disliked:
- Some found "Highest Duty" repetitive
- Several noted the writing can be dry
- A few readers wanted more technical aviation details
- Some felt the leadership advice was too basic
Ratings:
Amazon: "Highest Duty" - 4.7/5 from 1,200+ reviews
Goodreads: "Highest Duty" - 4.1/5 from 8,000+ ratings
"Making a Difference" - 3.9/5 from 400+ ratings
One reader noted: "His emphasis on preparation over heroics stands out." Another wrote: "The book shows how a lifetime of small decisions prepared him for one crucial moment."
📚 Books by Chesley Sullenberger
Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters (2009)
A memoir detailing Sullenberger's life experiences, military service, airline career, and the events surrounding the Hudson River landing of Flight 1549.
Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders (2012) A collection of interviews with notable leaders across various fields, examining their approaches to leadership and decision-making during critical moments.
Sully: My Search for What Really Matters (2016) An updated version of Highest Duty, including additional reflections on the Hudson River landing and its aftermath, released in conjunction with the film "Sully."
Making a Difference: Stories of Vision and Courage from America's Leaders (2012) A collection of interviews with notable leaders across various fields, examining their approaches to leadership and decision-making during critical moments.
Sully: My Search for What Really Matters (2016) An updated version of Highest Duty, including additional reflections on the Hudson River landing and its aftermath, released in conjunction with the film "Sully."
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