A Renowned Pilot Speaks Out on Deadly Collision

Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot celebrated for safely landing a plane on the Hudson River in 2009, has shared his perspective on the recent D.C. plane crash that claimed 67 lives. He suggests that poor visibility from flying over water at night may have been a factor, as the absence of ground lights can make it difficult for pilots to accurately gauge distance and altitude. Sully also expressed concerns about potential understaffing at Reagan National Airport’s control tower, where a single controller might have been responsible for both helicopters and planes. He cautioned that even minor errors in judgment during nighttime flights can have devastating consequences. His observations emphasize the need for stricter safety measures and enhanced pilot training to prevent similar tragedies in the future.