Ric Elias III Past Perfect and Past Simple

What happened first?
"Before the bird strike occurred, Ric Elias had boarded US Airways Flight 1549 on January 15, 2009."

What happened first?
"Before the plane took off from LaGuardia Airport, Ric Elias had settled into his seat, unaware of the impending emergency."

What happened first?
"Before Captain Chesley Sullenberger made the decision to land on the Hudson River, the aircraft had suffered a bird strike, causing the loss of both engines."

What happened first?
"Before the passengers realized the severity of the situation, the crew had already initiated emergency procedures."

What happened first?
"Before the plane safely landed on the Hudson River, Ric Elias had faced a terrifying moment when he thought he was going to die"

What happened first?
"Before the rescue boats arrived, the passengers and crew had evacuated the aircraft, facing the cold waters of the Hudson"

What happened first?
"Before reflecting on the experience, Ric Elias had not fully grasped the impact it would have on his perspective and priorities."

What happened first?
"Before sharing his insights with the world, Ric Elias had undergone a profound transformation in his approach to life."