Speedbird NineSpeedbird Nine
Days Like These — True Stories
It's a hot jolt of dread in your stomach, the cold sweat breaking out on your palms. You're watching the clouds cruise by from the cabin of the plane when turbulence hits. Usually, it's short-lived. You tell yourself 'everything will be okay'. But British Airways Flight 09 was far from usual. For the passengers and crew aboard, that one terrifying moment would stretch out into the longest 12 minutes of their lives.
20:28•24 Nov 2020
Facing Flames: The Story of Speedbird Nine
Episode Overview
- Captain Moody's calmness under pressure was crucial in avoiding panic.
- Volcanic ash caused all four engines to fail mid-flight.
- The plane descended from 37,000 feet to 12,500 feet before engines restarted.
- Passengers faced the fear of imminent death and prepared for impact.
- Evan Dillner's reunion with Captain Moody highlights gratitude and survival.
“"We have a small problem."”
How do you prepare for a crash landing? This gripping episode of Days Like These unravels the chilling story of British Airways Flight 09, where passengers faced a terrifying ordeal mid-air. Imagine staring out the window, only to witness flames licking the engines of your plane—a nightmare scenario that unfolded for Evan Dillner and 261 other passengers. As volcanic ash choked the engines, the plane began its heart-stopping descent from 37,000 feet.
Captain Eric Moody's calm announcement, a masterpiece of British understatement, reassured passengers as they braced for impact. "We have a small problem," he said, as the engines failed one by one. Yet, against all odds, Moody and his crew navigated through the chaos to land safely in Jakarta. The podcast highlights the emotional aftermath of such a near-death experience, exploring how Evan Dillner coped with the fear of never seeing his family again.
In a poignant reunion, Evan expresses his gratitude to Captain Moody, who humbly downplays his heroism. The episode offers a blend of humour and raw emotion, reminding us of the fragility of life and the courage found in unexpected places. What would you say to someone who saved your life? Dive into this compelling narrative and reflect on your own moments of gratitude.

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