Ep 13. Impossible Landing

Impossible Landing is an intense and gripping episode of Air Disasters season 11, which focuses on the incredible feat of Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger who managed to land his airplane on the Hudson River after a bird strike caused both engines to fail.

The episode begins with the routine flight of US Airways Flight 1549 from LaGuardia Airport in New York to Charlotte, North Carolina. The plane, an Airbus A320, was carrying 155 passengers and crew members and had just reached cruising altitude when the disaster struck. A flock of geese flew directly into the engines, effectively shutting them down.

The captain and first officer immediately went through their emergency procedures, attempting to restart the engines or find a suitable location for a crash landing. However, with no engine power and limited options, Captain Sullenberger made the decision to attempt an emergency water landing on the Hudson River.

The episode details the incredible teamwork and skill of the flight crew, air traffic controllers, and rescue workers as they worked together to ensure the safety of all on board. The passengers' panicked reactions are also shown, as many prepared for what they believed would be a fatal crash.

As the plane approached the river, the captain expertly maneuvered the plane to avoid buildings and bridges, all while losing altitude rapidly. The episode features powerful simulations and eyewitness accounts of the events that transpired, as well as ethical considerations the captain and crew had to make in the moment.

The landing itself was unlike anything previously seen in aviation history. Despite the cold temperatures and icy waters, all passengers and crew members were successfully evacuated from the plane. The episode showcases the heroism of the captain and crew, as well as the bravery and quick thinking of the passengers and rescuers.

The investigation that followed the incident is also explored in the episode, shedding light on the numerous factors that contributed to the success of the emergency landing. The episode does not shy away from the difficult questions such as what would've happened if the bird strike had happened earlier or later in the flight, or how the crew would've reacted if it happened at night?

Ultimately, Impossible Landing is a testament to the professionalism and expertise of those involved in the aviation industry, and a reminder of the importance of safety procedures and training. The episode provides a fitting tribute to Captain Sullenberger and his crew, highlighting their heroism in the face of danger and the incredible skill that ultimately saved the lives of all on board.