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March 4, 2010 | Hudson crash landing hero Sullenberger retires | New York: American Airlines pilot captain Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, who made headlines after safely gliding a jet onto the Hudson River last year, has retired. Sullenberger,
who saved the lives of 155 people through the emergency landing, flew his last
US Airways flight to his home base, Charlotte. After his final touchdown, he was
greeted on the tarmac by fire trucks forming a watery ceremonial arch with their
hoses. Onboard were his wife and six passengers from Flight 1549. "It was sort
of coming full circle, wasn't it? Many of us are still trying to process this
event. Having the opportunity to share in a very special day helps," The New York
Daily News quoted Sullenberger, as having told reporters at the airport. "In 30
years of flying I don't think I've received better, more efficient and friendly
service from the air traffic controllers than I did today," he added. Displaying
modesty that gave him staying power as a national hero, Sullenberger did not make
a fuss about piloting his last flight, and at his side was co-pilot, Jeff Skiles,
who had helped him land Flight 1549 on the Hudson a year ago. Sullenberger vowed
to stay busy as a "voice of reason" - pressing corporations and lawmakers to
improve
air safety. "We can't forget that we are in the business of saving lives, not
saving money. Pilots are being put in the cockpit without enough experience, and
required to fly too much without adequate rest," Sullenberger said. Meanwhile,
James Ray, US Airline Pilots Association spokesman, said: "He didn't want any
big fanfare. He just wanted to pull his plane up, park it and then go down to
the crew room for some cake and punch and retire like any other pilot." |
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