There is some breaking news coming out of the miraculous U.S. Air Flight which successfully ditched in the Hudson River. It turns out that Captain Sullenberger had always been curious if he "could put one down" successfully in the water. Apparently hours of routine and boring flights were punctuated by thoughts and fantasies of water landing a wide-bodied Airbus A320 in the water someday. Sullenberger said, "My long career was nearing its end and I had yet to fulfill this desire of bringing a large jet in for a water landing."In speaking about the Flight 1549 incident Sullenberger was quoted as saying, "When the engines failed instinct took over as I assumed control of the aircraft from the co-pilot. Although LaGuardia and Teterboro airports were possible landing sites I knew that I was going to put this baby down in the Hudson River. Once I saw the Hudson River laid out in front of me like a glistening runway there was no airport in the world that could lure me away from my destiny. I would never have another opportunity like this and I felt confident I could full my lifelong dream of a smooth water landing."
In looking back at the experience Captain Sullenberger said, "We probably could have made Teterboro airport, but I think you would agree that the passengers will now have a great story to tell for the rest of their lives. And after all that's what is really important."
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