Whilst it’s difficult to judge the event when one wasn’t actually there to weigh all of the factors, my biggest concern with the decision to continue is that it sets a questionable precedent within the pilot group. Engine shutdowns on that fleet may now be considered an amber event, as opposed to a red one, to be treated much the same way as, say, the loss of one hydraulic system. The decision to return now stands to be quietly viewed as ‘inexperienced’ or ‘incompetent’, the importance stressed, by high-profile example, that V1 should be equal to destination.
It is a development fraught with the gravest of safety concerns.
Although I can’t help admiring the commander for his really big cohones, in view of the impending oceanic crossing and associated lack of diversion airfields, personally, I would have returned.