In the described cockpit conflict, what action did the crew initially advocate?

• A. Shutting down the number 3 engine
• B. Continuing with all engines online and no action
• C. Diverting to the nearest airport immediately
• D. Requesting an emergency landing with all thrusters on

Answer: (A)

When a cockpit conflict arises during an engine issue, the first priority is to isolate and secure the suspected fault. Shutting down the number 3 engine accomplishes this by removing the potential source of abnormal vibration, warning, or fire from the equation, which in turn stabilizes the situation and allows the crew to safely evaluate the aircraft’s performance with the remaining engines. This action follows standard engine-out procedures: quickly secure the faulty engine, then reassess, maintain control, and decide on further steps such as restart, diversion, or additional checks.

Keeping all engines running with no action would keep the problem live and could worsen damage or risk. Diverting to the nearest airport immediately or calling for an emergency landing with an unrealistic “all thrusters on” scenario jumps ahead of necessary stability and assessment steps and isn’t aligned with typical procedures, which prioritize securing the fault first.