Captain Sully Sullenberger Announces Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

On July 14, 2026, Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, renowned for his heroic landing on the Hudson River in 2009, announced he is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Sullenberger shared this news via social media, noting some initial symptoms such as difficulty remembering names, repeating stories, and changes in sleep patterns. His statement was originally disclosed to People magazine.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that leads to memory deterioration and other cognitive issues. It stands as the leading cause of dementia without an existing cure.

Sullenberger earned national acclaim when US Airways Flight 1549, under his command, suffered engine failures shortly after departing from New York’s LaGuardia Airport on January 15, 2009. A bird strike was responsible for these failures. Demonstrating quick judgment, Sullenberger and his crew safely performed an emergency landing on the Hudson River. Given the situation, returning to an airport was not an option. This feat, famously known as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” ensured the safety of all 155 passengers and crew and was later depicted in the 2016 film “Sully.”

Sullenberger has served as an aviation safety advocate and CBS News expert post-retirement. Reflecting on his diagnosis, he cited the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s, noting that over 7 million Americans have the disease as per the Alzheimer’s Association.

In his message, Sullenberger expressed a desire for others affected by Alzheimer’s to speak openly about their experiences. He stated, “When discussing the success of Flight 1549, I often mentioned that ‘courage can be contagious,’ aiding our collective effort to evacuate the airplane safely. We need similar courage to confront this disease. I am now part of a community facing this challenge, and we will find strength together.”