Southwest Airlines flight plunged to within 400 feet of ocean off Hawaii: 'Like a roller coaster ride'
How rapidly did the plane descend when the first officer inadvertently pushed forward on the controls, and what was the rate of climb when the captain corrected the descent?
The Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 flight experienced a rapid descent when the first officer inadvertently pushed forward on the controls. The plane dropped at an alarming rate of more than 4,000 feet per second, coming within 400 feet of the ocean. To correct the descent, the captain ordered the first officer to increase thrust, resulting in the plane climbing aggressively at a rate of 8,500 feet per minute.
Can you describe the sequence of events that occurred after the first officer inadvertently pushed the controls forward?
After the first officer inadvertently pushed the controls forward, the speed was cut to compensate, causing the airplane to rapidly descend. This descent sounded alarms in the cockpit. The captain then ordered the first officer to increase thrust, causing the plane to "aggressively" climb at 8,500 feet per minute. The plane returned to Honolulu where it landed safely.
What was the role of the first officer during the flight to Lihue Airport, and how did this contribute to the incident?
During the Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 flight to Lihue Airport, the first officer was in command as the pilot flying (PF) while the captain acted as the pilot not flying (PNF). The incident occurred when the first officer inadvertently pushed forward on the controls while monitoring the thrust level, which moves based on the plane's automatic throttle5. This action caused the aircraft to rapidly descend, triggering alarms. The captain then ordered the first officer to increase thrust, resulting in the plane aggressively climbing at 8,500 feet per minute.
The incident highlighted the importance of clear communication between crew members, as the memo sent to Southwest pilots emphasized the need for better communication and reviewing protocols and training to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The FAA is also investigating the incident.