Overview of events

On January 15, 2009 at approximately 3:30 PM (ET), US Airways flight 1549 made an emergency water landing as a result of a bird strike (a large flock of Canadian geese) in the Hudson River in New York.

There were 150 passengers on board and five crew members. There were no fatalities and only minor injuries.

Passengers were assisted by emergency first responders from the New York/New Jersey area as well as by ferry companies.

Crew information:

  • Captain Chesley B. Sullenberger III, age 58, joined US Airways (PSA Airlines) in 1980. He has more than 19,000 flight hours.
  • First officer Jeff Skiles, age 49, joined US Airways (USAir) in 1986. He has more than 15,000 flight hours.
  • Flight Attendant Sheila Dail joined US Airways (Piedmont Airlines) in 1980 and has more than 29 years experience with the airline.
  • Flight Attendant Doreen Welsh joined US Airways (Allegheny Airlines) in 1970 and has more than 39 years experience with the airline.
  • Flight Attendant Donna Dent was hired by US Airways (Piedmont Airlines) in 1982 and has more than 27 years with the airline.

Flight 1549 aircraft information

The A320 aircraft is a twin-engine, fuel-efficient aircraft that offers dual-class service and seats 150 passengers (12 First Class, 138 main cabin).

  • Type: Airbus A320-214
  • Built: June 15, 1999
  • Length of service with US Airways: 9 years (August 2, 1999)
  • Aircraft lessor: Wells Fargo Bank Northwest, National Association as Owner Trustee
  • Previous operator: N/A
  • Number of cycles (a cycle equals one takeoff and one landing): 16,299
  • Number of flight hours: 25,241.08
  • Aircraft checks: Date of last A-check (maintenance inspection performed every 550 flight hours): December 6, 2008
  • Aircraft checks: Date of last C-Check (annual, comprehensive aircraft inspection): April 19, 2008
  • Engines: CFM56-5B4/P
  • Engine 1 (left) installation date: January 15, 2008
  • Engine 1 (left) total flight hours: 19,182.00
  • Engine 2 (right) installation date: May 28, 2006
  • Engine 2 (right) total flight hours: 26,466.08