Press Release

BUCHANAN HEARS TESTIMONY REGARDING FLIGHT 1549

Washington, DC -- Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-13) heard testimony today regarding the emergency landing of U.S. Airways flight 1549. Buchanan is a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation, which examined lessons learned by the January 15th crash landing and the effects of bird strikes on commercial flights. The 13th District Congressman congratulated the pilot for safely landing the Charlotte-bound plane in New York’s Hudson River.

“I congratulate Capt. Sullenberger and his four crew mates for their courage, skill and determination,” said Buchanan.  “The members of this well-trained and experienced flight crew are role models for all aviation professionals.” 

Flight 1549 had just taken off from New York’s LaGuardia Airport was bound for Charlotte, North Carolina when both engines failed.  It is believed that the airplanes engines failed due to bird strikes.  All 155 passengers and crew were safely evacuated and rescued. The Subcommittee also heard from pilot and crew as well as a panel of aviation safety experts, including an authority on the effects of bird strikes on aircraft.