It has been ten years since Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger executed an extraordinary emergency landing on the Hudson River, a feat now famously known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Despite the passing of a decade, the cockpit audio from that fateful day remains as haunting and awe-inspiring as ever.

A Life-Changing Incident
On the afternoon of January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 encountered disaster when a flock of Canadian geese struck the aircraft, causing both engines to fail. With no engine thrust and limited time, Captain Sullenberger, a seasoned U.S. Air Force veteran, faced an unprecedented challenge. Unable to return to LaGuardia Airport or reach any other runway, he made the split-second decision to land the plane in the Hudson River, saving all 155 passengers and crew onboard.

Though no lives were lost, listening to the audio of the event is still a chilling experience.

The Calm in Chaos
In the recording, Sullenberger’s composure is evident:
“This is Cactus 1549. Hit birds. We’ve lost thrust in both engines. We’re turning back to LaGuardia,” he tells air traffic control, calmly adding, “We may end up in the Hudson.”