Jaunted

Tags: Flight 1549 / US Airways / Accidents / Inauguration 2009 / → All Tags

A Brilliant Idea for Obama: Invite U.S. Airways Captain and Crew to the Inauguration

There's simply no question that Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, the captain who guided U.S. Airways flight 1549 to an absolutely perfect water landing in the Hudson River Thursday after it was disabled by a flock of birds, is in every way a kick-ass dude and a hero for the ages. But he also had a crew whose quick thinking and bold action helped ensure that every one of the 155 people on board made it out alive, an outcome that seemed all but impossible to me when I first heard of the accident and saw the images on TV.

We received a tip that a New York millionaire and frequent U.S. Airways passenger named Michael Savage has offered to take Captain Sullenberger to the presidential inauguration as his guest, and it got us thinking. Sullenberger shouldn't have to rely on the generosity of Mr. Savage, because if President-elect Obama is as cool as he seems to be, he'll personally invite the entire flight crew to join him as guests of honor for the big day. Think about it: this crew represents the very best of our country, selflessly working together against seemingly impossible odds to save the lives of others. They're just the kind of working-class heroes presidents love to trot out during State of the Union Addresses and such. It'll be perfect.

It's just a hunch, but I wouldn't be surprised if Captain Sullenberger was joined by First Officer Jeffrey Skiles and flight attendants Donna Dent, Doreen Welsh, and Sheila Dail at the inauguration this Tuesday. If anybody represents the hope embodied by the campaign, it's this bunch. Here's hoping Mr. Obama is thinking the same thing.

You heard it here first.

[Photo: LA Times]

Related Stories
· Two-Minute Bio: Chesley B. Sullenberger III [Time]
· U.S. Aviation Safety Streak Still Alive [Jaunted]