CHICAGO- Jeff Skiles, the first officer of US Airways Flight 1549, famously known as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” has retired from American Airlines (AA) after a long aviation career.
Despite his initial departure from cockpit duties, he returned to active flying and continued serving as an international pilot for American Airlines until his retirement this month.
Miracle on the Hudson First Officer Retires
Skiles’ final flight, American Airlines Flight 87, operated with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner from London Heathrow (LHR) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD), took place on Sunday (November 17, 2024), coinciding with his 65th birthday the following day.
However, as per some reports, he was not given a water cannon salute.
A water cannon salute is a ceremonial tribute where fire trucks spray water arches over an aircraft or watercraft. Originating in the 19th century to celebrate ship launches and arrivals, the tradition is now used to mark significant aviation events, such as a flight’s inaugural or final journey, honor military personnel, or celebrate retirements.
Senior pilots often receive this honor on their last flight, symbolizing a respectful send-off for their career.
Following the 2009 emergency water landing in the Hudson River, where all 155 passengers and crew survived, Skiles continued his career with US Airways. He later joined American Airlines when the two airlines merged in 2013, rising to the position of captain on the Boeing 787.
While Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger retired in 2010, Skiles initially transitioned to a different aviation focus, co-chairing the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) Young Eagles program with Sullenberger. This initiative aimed to inspire young people to pursue aviation careers.
In 2012, Skiles was appointed Vice President of Chapters and Youth Organizations at the EAA. At the time, he announced a shift away from active flying, stating his future would lie with the EAA.
During his tenure, he delivered motivational speeches nationwide, focusing on crisis management and overcoming adversity. Represented by Leading Authorities, Skiles commands fees of $10,000 to $20,000 per appearance.
Skiles also became a contributing writer, penning a monthly column for Sport Aviation magazine since 2011.
US Airways Flight 1549
On January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549, an Airbus A320 carrying 150 passengers and five crew members, made an emergency landing in the Hudson River after departing from New York City’s LaGuardia Airport.
The flight, bound for Charlotte, North Carolina, encountered a critical failure when a flock of Canada geese struck and severely damaged both engines, causing near-total thrust loss approximately two minutes after takeoff.
Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger III attempted to return to LaGuardia but quickly determined the aircraft could not reach the airport. An alternate airport in New Jersey was also ruled out. Realizing the dire situation, Sullenberger informed air traffic control of his decision to execute a water landing in the Hudson River. At 3:29 PM, he instructed passengers and crew to “brace for impact.”
The aircraft hit the water about three and a half minutes after the bird strike, with the aft fuselage suffering significant damage upon impact. Water entered the cabin through a rupture, but the plane remained afloat, aided by its partially empty fuel tanks.
Passengers and crew evacuated via forward slide/rafts and the wings, where they waited for rescue. Local ferries and emergency responders arrived within minutes.
Most passengers experienced minor injuries, though five people, including a flight attendant who required surgery for a leg injury, sustained more serious harm. Many were treated for hypothermia due to the cold river water.
National Heroes
Despite some initial criticism of the water landing, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation concluded that Sullenberger’s decision was correct given the circumstances.
The crew’s actions were credited with saving all 155 lives on board. Within days, the aircraft was recovered from the river, and in 2011 it was placed on display at the Carolinas Aviation Museum in Charlotte.
The incident, often referred to as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” solidified Sullenberger’s status as a national hero. It became the subject of Clint Eastwood’s 2016 film Sully, with Tom Hanks portraying the captain. The event remains a significant case study in aviation safety and emergency response.
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