Volcanic ash and the lying inner ear
Summary
This episode analyzes three aviation disasters to explore the interplay of physics, human psychology, and cockpit culture. It details British Airways Flight 9’s survival of volcanic ash, China Airlines 006’s recovery from spatial disorientation and automation error, and Flash Airlines 604’s fatal crash caused by rigid hierarchy. The hosts emphasize how invisible environmental threats and social dynamics can override technology, highlighting the critical need for effective crew resource management and empowered communication in high-stakes environments.
Topics discussed
Ripple Kids plant-based milk advertisement
Introduction: British Airways Flight 9 mystery
The four-engine flame-out and emergency descent
Captain Moody's calm announcement and blind landing
Volcanic ash: The invisible killer and engine restart
China Airlines 006: Automation illusion and asymmetric thrust
Spatial disorientation and the biology of inner ear
The vertical dive, G-forces, and recovery
Flash Airlines 604: The tragedy over the Red Sea
Cockpit hierarchy and the failure to speak up
Crew Resource Management and final reflections
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