Sully's Alzheimer's Diagnosis.
Miracle on the Hudson pilot Sully Sullenberger reveals early Alzheimer's diagnosis.
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Key Points
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Sully publicly disclosed the diagnosis with direct wording that emphasizes its early stage, including: “I recently found out I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease,” and that the disease is in its early phase where a name may not come easily, he forgets a recently told story, and sleep may be disrupted; the diagnosis occurred in August 2025.
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The medical perspective highlighted by his disclosure comes from UCSF Medical Center physician Dr. Gil Rabinovici, who reportedly told Sullenberger about the prevalence of Alzheimer’s and that the disease spares no age group, underscoring awareness that it affects millions worldwide.
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Sullenberger has a long retirement timeline with continuation of public work; he retired from commercial flying in 2010, and his ongoing public engagement includes advocacy and aviation history recognition.
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He is slated for induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September, marking continued honors in aviation history despite his diagnosis.
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The Hudson River landing remains a central part of his legacy, with reports noting there were 155 people aboard US Airways Flight 1549 and all survived the emergency, a detail referenced in coverage surrounding the diagnosis.
Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger III, the pilot celebrated for landing US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009, has revealed he has Alzheimer's disease. CBS News reported the diagnosis came in August 2025 and is currently in its early stage.
Sullenberger, now 75, said the disease is "in its early phase" — causing memory lapses, trouble recalling recently told stories, and disrupted sleep. He posted a statement on his website saying he hopes his disclosure will help "other families living with the disease," according to The Guardian.
Sullenberger's Own Words on His Diagnosis
Sullenberger did not shy away from direct language. "I recently found out I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease," he wrote in his public statement. He stressed that this is the start of "a long journey" and that he remains the same steady person his family and fans have always known.
His wife, Lorrie, stood beside him in the disclosure. She described the experience as one navigated "with hope and gratitude." The couple said they are committed to finding joy in everyday moments, according to CBS News.
Doctor's Warning: Alzheimer's Spares No One
Sullenberger's physician at UCSF Medical Center, Dr. Gil Rabinovici, played a key role in shaping how the pilot understood his illness. Dr. Rabinovici told Sullenberger about just how common the disease is — and that it affects people across all age groups, The Guardian reported.
That message became part of why Sullenberger chose to go public. He wants people to know that Alzheimer's touches millions of families worldwide. By speaking out early, he hopes to cut the stigma and push others to seek help sooner.
The 'Miracle on the Hudson' Legacy That Defined Him
Sullenberger's fame traces back to January 15, 2009. After a bird strike knocked out both engines, he guided US Airways Flight 1549 to a safe water landing on the Hudson River in New York City. All 155 people on board survived, CBS News reported.
The event was instantly called the "Miracle on the Hudson." It made Sullenberger a household name and a symbol of calm under pressure. He retired from commercial flying in 2010 but never stepped away from the public eye, continuing advocacy work and public speaking.
Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Still on Track for September
Despite his diagnosis, Sullenberger's public life goes on. He is set to be inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in September 2025, according to CBS News. The honor marks one of the highest recognitions in American aviation history.
His disclosure drew wide coverage and an outpouring of support. The Guardian noted that Sullenberger's openness about his illness mirrors the same courage he showed in the cockpit — facing hard facts head-on and choosing to act for others.
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