The story of Flight 191 is one that continues to fascinate and intrigue, raising questions about a pivotal moment in aviation history. While the tragic end of this flight is well-documented, understanding what really happened to Flight 191 delves into the complex interplay of mechanical failure, pilot decisions, and the unforgiving laws of physics.
The Catastrophic Chain of Events
The key to understanding what really happened to Flight 191 lies in a series of cascading failures that began long before the aircraft ever left the runway. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10, was operating as American Airlines Flight 191 from Chicago O’Hare International Airport on May 25, 1979. The investigation revealed a critical flaw in the design and maintenance of the engine mounting system.
- The left engine, the number one engine, was mounted to the wing with a large pylon.
- During routine maintenance, a faulty procedure was used to move the engine. This procedure caused stress fractures in the pylon.
- These stress fractures went undetected during inspections.
The sequence of events leading to the crash was truly devastating. As the aircraft accelerated for takeoff, the weakened pylon could no longer withstand the immense forces. This led to a catastrophic failure:
- The left engine and pylon detached from the wing.
- The detached engine struck the wing, causing significant structural damage.
- This damage resulted in the loss of hydraulic fluid, which is essential for controlling the aircraft’s flight surfaces.
The pilots were immediately faced with an extreme emergency. The loss of the engine and the hydraulic system rendered the aircraft virtually uncontrollable. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the aircraft’s control loss:
| System Affected | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic System | Inability to move flight control surfaces (ailerons, elevators, rudder) |
| Left Wing Structure | Loss of lift on the left side |
The pilots fought valiantly to regain control, but the damage was too severe. The aircraft rolled to the left and descended rapidly, crashing into a field just beyond the airport. The loss of control due to the engine separation and subsequent hydraulic failure was the primary cause of the accident.
To gain a deeper understanding of the technical aspects and the investigation findings, please refer to the official accident report provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). This comprehensive document offers detailed analysis and conclusions regarding what really happened to Flight 191.