Captain C.B. Sully Sullenberger to Retire From US Airways - Last Flight Audio

This recording captures a rare moment of sentimentality in the typically rigid world of air traffic control. Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, who became a global icon following the "Miracle on the Hudson" in January 2009, chose to retire just over a year later. His final flight, Cactus 1167, departed from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) bound for Charlotte (CLT).

The recording is notable for the formal address given by the FLL Tower controller. Breaking standard radio brevity, the controller delivers a prepared statement acknowledging Sullenberger’s "tremendous personal achievements" and stating that the ATC community is "proud to be on the same team." This level of public recognition over a tower frequency is reserved for only the most significant figures in aviation history.

Technically, the exchange follows standard procedures for a busy airport. Sullenberger is instructed to "position and hold" (now known as "line up and wait") on Runway 27 Right while a Spirit Airlines Boeing 737 is on final approach. Once the sequence is clear, he is given his final takeoff clearance from Fort Lauderdale. The use of the callsign "Cactus" is a nod to US Airways' history, as it was the callsign inherited from America West Airlines.

The most poignant moment occurs as Sullenberger is handed off to the departure frequency. Several other pilots on the frequency—who usually maintain strict professional silence—break in to say "See ya, Sully!" and "Adios!" This spontaneous display of camaraderie from anonymous peers illustrates the profound respect the aviation community held for Sullenberger following the successful ditching of Flight 1549. It serves as a heartwarming conclusion to a career defined by a singular act of extraordinary skill and composure.