Part 7/10:
What's critical to note is that the fuel leak was not just a logistical concern but a serious fire hazard. Given the numerous factors that could trigger ignition, including changing airflow, the crew's decision to approach the situation casually bordered on negligence.
Approach and Landing: The Critical Moments
Eventually, the pilots agreed to divert to Yamoussoukro Airport in Côte d'Ivoire, but the heavier discussion surrounding whether to execute an engine shutdown continued. They opted to maintain both engines for descent while struggling under the additional workload and stress of managing an ongoing fuel leak.