Part 3/7:
Initial Findings from the Test
As the test progressed, the simulation captured vivid details about the critical moments of impact. Initially, the barriers destroyed the propellers while also resulting in the separation of landing gear. The engines were ripped from their mounts, igniting engine fires, which starkly illustrated the destructive nature of crash landings.
Notably, the test demonstrated a specific impact with the left wing of the aircraft as it collided with the telegraph pole. The wing structure exhibited considerable damage upon impact, which called into question claims of an intact wing surviving a similar collision scenario with Flight 77.