[Update 1/20: Here we see new details coming out on this flight… so does this change the evaluation of the consequences and behavior?]
Most reports on the Hudson Plane Landing are very much a praise of the crew and the captain. For good reason.
Ah, contingencies of context. We’re assigning value to the pilots actions based on the consequences. Perhaps if the plane had trouble with the water landing we would be criticizing his methods.
Consider this statement from the report:
The pilot and air traffic controller discussed options, including landing at Teterboro airport in New Jersey, the official said. Then there was a “period of time where there was no communications back, and I’m assuming he was concentrating on more important things.”
How many times have we heard after a tragedy that this same lack of communication resulted in the disaster?
So now, is it better to concentrate and non communicate with the controller?
For amazement, view some of the social network shots and stories.
Social Mode 
Thanks to the pilot and crew, but thanks more to the engineers of Airbus for making a plane that showed proof of its abilities.
Also thanks to the Avionics Technicians who ensure that emergency systems are working correctly. Despite all the dedication, let us feel a sense that the spirits in the area wouldn’t allow another desaster to take place.
How big of a moron are you? The communication or lack thereof had nothing to do with the landing, where ever it could have taken place. Had the tower given instructions to the pilot to land at a specific location I could understand your concern. That however wasn’t the case now was it? The pilot had a few options: 1) try to make it to an alternate landing site. Not enough power to make it over the heavily populated area.
2) Bring the jet liner in for a landing on Broadway. Not a good idea as it would have killed hundreds if not thousands of people on the ground as well as the passengers on the aircraft. 3) Come in low with the nose up on the river. Ding ding ding, we have a winner! The only lives at risk were the 146 on the aircraft and a few boats on the river.
The pilot thought about his options and made the right choice. Because of his choice alone, 146 people are still alive!