The Decision Making Process Behind Captain Sully's Miracle on the Hudson

When Captain Sully involved the flight attendants in the decision to return to La Guardia after the bird strike in the movie 'Sully', he was making a critical judgment call based on several factors. Surprisingly, the decision to not turn back immediately was not impulsive but deeply considered. Let's explore the reasons why Sully opted to glide the aircraft towards the Hudson River and not to return home.

Altitude and Airspeed

Post the bird strike, the plane was in a highly compromised state. At an altitude of approximately 3000 feet, with reduced airspeed, an immediate turn could have compromised the aircraft's control. A sudden maneuver could have led to a stall, making the plane uncontrollable and potentially leading to a more severe emergency.

Safety of Passengers

Given the critical situation, Sully prioritized the safety of his passengers and crew. A turn could have increased the risk of losing control, especially with both engines already out of commission. He needed to assess whether a return to LaGuardia was safe or if finding an alternative landing site was necessary. Ensuring the safety of all individuals on board was his top priority.

Situational Awareness

Sully was keenly focused on maintaining control of the aircraft, assessing the situation, and communicating with air traffic control. The decision to maintain stability and evaluate the best course of action required a thorough understanding of the current conditions. The option to glide towards the Hudson River offered a higher likelihood of a safe landing, especially under the circumstances.

Experience and Training

With extensive experience as a pilot, Sully heavily relied on his training for emergency situations. He was well-versed in the dynamics of flight and engine failure. Sully's training emphasized the importance of maintaining control and making calculated decisions under pressure. His experience taught him that the cautious approach of gliding to the river was the best option to ensure the survival of all passengers and crew.

Final Decision and Outcome

Ultimately, Sully made the decision to glide the aircraft towards the Hudson River, believing it to be the safest option for a successful landing. He needed to be certain that the risk to the aircraft and its occupants was minimal. His calm demeanor and quick thinking under pressure were crucial in ensuring the survival of all 155 people on board.

The example of Captain Sully's decision-making process is indeed outstanding. It highlights how experience, technical skills, and situational awareness unite to produce an extraordinary performance. The Miracle on the Hudson is a testament to the expertise and courage of a professional pilot in a high-stress situation.

Watch the movie again and observe the reaction time and decision-making process. The filmmakers added 30 seconds to accurately depict this sequence. Sully had to get it right the first time, and he succeeded. This is truly an outstanding performance that demonstrates the human capacity to handle unforeseen crises.