June 2024: The Sullenberger Aviation Museum

Welcome Aboard

Welcome to the latest edition of "My View From The Left Seat." June was a busy but exciting month. The long-awaited Sullenberger Aviation Museum opened its doors, and it was wonderful to celebrate the occasion with my family, passengers from Flight 1549, and the Museum staff who had worked so hard for years bringing the new Museum to life.?

June also brought a major milestone for Lorrie and me - our 35th wedding anniversary!

The Sullenberger Aviation Museum: Inspiring the Next Generation?

As a child I was fascinated by the wonder of flight, and as a pilot, I've never tired of seeing the beauty of the earth or sky day or night from the unique perspective of the left seat. Now, at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, .I have witnessed the magic of flight ignite a spark of wonder in the eyes of young visitors.

While the "Miracle on the Hudson" is what put me on this path, the museum's stories extend far beyond that single event. The exhibits delve into the rich history of aviation, showcasing how flight has transformed our world – shrinking distances, fostering cultural exchange, and revolutionizing our way of life.

But the most thrilling aspect?? Seeing the connections ignite within young minds. Through partnerships with schools and industry leaders, the museum provides students with opportunities to engage with the world of flight. They discover the vast array of careers available, from the exhilaration of piloting to the critical roles of engineers and air traffic controllers. We want to show them that the skies truly hold no limit.

In fact, I had the privilege of meeting a young man whose love for airplanes soared thanks to the Carolina Aviation Museum (now the Sullenberger Aviation Museum).

The child's fascination began at just 4 or 5 years old with a visit to the museum's exhibit on the "Miracle on the Hudson". The experience sparked a lifelong passion for aviation.

The child's enthusiasm was contagious, even inspiring a younger sibling to call airplanes "Miracle on the Hudson!" Their love for planes manifested in imaginative play, airport chalk drawings, Lego creations, and a constant thirst for aviation knowledge.

The museum fueled the child's passion. They made frequent visits, including a final trip before the museum closed in July 2019. The closure didn't dampen their spirit. They continued learning, watching airplanes takeoff and land, researching emergency landings, and devouring aviation books.

Their 11th birthday brought a double dose of excitement. They received a copy of my book, "Highest Duty," and a family membership to the newly reopened Sullenberger Aviation Museum.?

This story is a testament to the power of museums to ignite curiosity and inspire young minds. The Sullenberger Aviation Museum has not only preserved aviation history but also played a pivotal role in shaping a child's future. Their story is a reminder of the lasting impact museums can have on future generations.

You can watch me on CBS here giving a tour of the museum. The museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a training ground for future aviators and dreamers. We believe every child deserves the chance to explore the boundless possibilities that flight offers. The museum aims to ignite their curiosity, nurture their aspirations, and equip them with the knowledge and resources to soar.

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Thank you for joining me on this month's journey. Together, let's keep learning and growing.

Captain Sully Sullenberger