Page "American Airlines Flight 96" Paragraph 1

The rapid decompression in the cargo hold caused a partial collapse of the passenger compartment floor, which in turn jammed or restricted some of the control cables which led to various flight control hydraulic actuators.

The jamming of the rudder control cable caused the rudder to deflect to its maximum right position.

The cable controls to the number two ( tail ) engine were severed, causing that engine to shut down.

Fortunately, there was no rupture of any hydraulic system, so the pilots still had control of the ailerons, the right elevator and the horizontal stabilizer.

However, because the right elevator cable was partially restricted, both pilots had to apply back pressure on the yoke for the landing flare.

Additionally, the approach and landing had to be made at high speed, to prevent the sink rate from becoming too high.

The tendency to turn right was offset by using 45 degrees of left aileron, combined with asymmetrical thrust of the two wing engines.

In spite of the partial restriction of the controls, the pilots were able to make a safe landing at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport with no major injuries.