United 232 Assignment

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *

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472

Subject

Mechanical Engineering

Date

Dec 6, 2023

Type

docx

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2

Uploaded by BrigadierDanger471

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The DC-10 crew of United Flight 232, which faced an unprecedented engine failure and all hydraulic system failure and subsequent loss of control in 1989, is often cited as a prime example of leadership and professionalism in high-pressure situations. Their actions offer several valuable lessons for effective leadership and professionalism during crises. In the video, Captain Haynes emphasized five key terms that were essential for their survival: preparation, communication, cooperation, execution, and luck. He also highlighted calm under pressure and flexible application of knowledge during his speech. 1. Preparation The crew's effectiveness during this crisis can be attributed to their extensive training and preparation. They have practiced emergency procedures numerous times, which helps them respond more effectively when they encounter unexpected situations. Although the emergency they were facing was so unique and never happened before, they could still get some idea from their training about emergency procedure during engine failure and hydraulic failure. Their training maintained their proficiency and get them prepared for emergency events. This highlights the importance of ongoing training and preparation for leaders and their teams. 2. Communication Effective communication was key to their success. Captain Haynes and his crew understood the critical importance of clear communication during a crisis. While maintaining control of the aircraft, they communicated with ATC and declare their situation clearly. To help them, ATC established open and effective communication channels among themselves and the flight crew. This allowed the flight crew to share information, coordinate their efforts, and make informed decisions. Both crew and ATC demonstrated professionalism during crises. Up-to-date information for both sides helped the crew to take the aircraft to an airport that is totally ready for it. 3. Cooperation The flight crew, along with the assistance of a DC-10 training instructor who happened to be a passenger, worked collaboratively to problem-solve and control the aircraft. For example, the throttle. With mid row throttle locked, is became difficult to control the left and right throttle at the same time. And the DC-10 instructor took that job so that both Captain and FO could focus on yoke (elevator and aileron) and communication with ATC. Effective teamwork is vital in high-pressure situations as it ensures that everyone is on the same page and working toward a common goal. 4. Execution All crew members and ATC executed their jobs perfectly. Pilots maintain positive control of the aircraft while ATC gave them a completely clear channel and cleared the highway and airport for them. It was their professional operation and correct execution of their duties that saved more than half of the lives on board the aircraft. 5. Calm under pressure Captain Haynes and his crew as well as ATC remained remarkably calm throughout the crisis, despite facing an unprecedented situation. Their ability to stay calm helped maintain a sense of control among the crew and passengers. Their professionalism and composure reassured passengers and contributed to a more controlled evacuation once the plane crash-landed. As Captain Haynes stated, if ATC starts to panic, it will affect the crew. If the crew starts to panic, all passengers will be affected and panic even more. This
demonstrated the importance of leaders maintaining a calm demeanor to inspire confidence and prevent panic. 6. Flexible application of knowledge When traditional methods of controlling the aircraft failed, the crew adapted by using differential thrust from the remaining engines to maintain level flight control the aircraft's direction. When the first officer started to losing control of the aircraft and the aircraft started to roll, Captain Haynes found a solution by using different thrust to create different lift and thus maintain level flight. For the rest of the flight, they used differential thrust from the remaining engines to partially control the aircraft and managed to fly it toward an airport for an emergency landing. This ability to adapt and find solutions demonstrated effective leadership in crisis situations. 7. Luck Captain Haynes underlined the importance of luck by mentioning about location, weather, time, etc. However, in my opinion, without the concept stated previously, luck cannot take the aircraft to ground safely.
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