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An Airline Pilot Evaluates ‘Sully’

Tom Hanks and Aaron Eckhart play Capt. Chesley Sullenberger and Jeffrey Skiles respectively in the movie Sully. AtlasPix/Alamy Stock Photos
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Key Takeaways:

  • The author, an airline pilot, generally commends the movie "Sully" for its accurate depiction of pilot professionalism and realistic reactions during the emergency, considering it one of the best portrayals of modern-day pilots.
  • However, the article highlights several significant deviations from reality, including a dramatically compressed accident investigation timeline, the unjust demonization of the NTSB, and an understated portrayal of the chaotic cockpit environment and actual checklist procedures.
  • The author also emphasizes the substantial psychological trauma and self-doubt experienced by the pilots in reality, contrasting with the film's simplified hero narrative.
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As an airline pilot, I was anxious to watch Sully. Finally, I could attend an aviation movie without my wife having to bear witness to eye-rolling and corrective commentary.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.

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