Part 6/11:
The pilots communicated their emergency status to air traffic control, sharing the number of souls onboard and requesting emergency preparations as they began a steep descent. Captain Benham's leadership permitted the crew to work together seamlessly; he focused solely on controlling the aircraft while First Officer Paul and a jump-seat pilot, Ed Garin, were tasked with monitoring checklists and maintaining communication with the cabin crew.
Ed’s earlier training requirements significantly aided the situation—he effectively fulfilled the role of a third pilot, guiding procedures amidst a calamity.