April 18, 2018
Colorado’s Centennial Airport (APA), one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and famed Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot who performed a heroic emergency landing of a disabled US Airways airplane on New York City’s Hudson River in 2009, will headline an anniversary luncheon next month to mark the occasion.
On May 25, Sullenberger will share his credo of “leadership by personal example,” as well as the life lessons that prepared him to handle the unprecedented crisis known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Last year, Sullenberger received NBAA’s American Spirit Award for speaking out in opposition to ATC privatization.
“While we certainly want this event to be a fitting tribute to our 50th year, this event is not so much about us, but more about the Centennial Airport Foundation, and expanding its ability to financially support more local STEM education programs, particularly those focused on aviation and aerospace,” said Centennial Airport CEO Robert Olislagers.
“From humble beginnings in 1968, Centennial Airport has grown to become one of the most respected, premier business airports in the nation,” added Olislagers. “More importantly, the airport has proven itself as an integral part of the economic success of the Denver South Metro area, and being able to celebrate 50 years of aviation excellence with Capt. Sullenberger, who exemplifies excellence in aviation, is a fitting tribute to not only the airport, but to all who have made our success possible.”
With more than 340,000 operations per year, APA ranks among the busiest general aviation airports in the nation, generating approximately $1.4 billion in economic impact. Since 2005, Centennial Airport Foundation has generated more than $140,000 to support local scholarships to Colorado aviation and aerospace programs and students.
Learn more about Centennial Airport and the anniversary event.