Part 6/12:
Examining the engine’s behavior reveals a critical clue: visual evidence of compressor stalls on engine three (the right-wing engine). The video shows small, quick bursts of flames—characteristic of compressor stalls—when the engine was under strain. These stalls occur when the compressor blades inside the engine experience a sudden backfire due to airflow disruptions, often leading to engine failure.
In this incident, the number three engine displayed flame-outs and flickering flames consistent with compressor stalls. Multiple rapid "pops" and flames emanated from the engine, indicating ongoing internal failure. Such a failure can severely reduce thrust, impairing the aircraft's ability to climb.
The Chain of Failures
The data and visuals suggest a sequence of catastrophic events: