Doesn't matter, only 2 were in control and only 2 could see the instruments. Outside was pitch black. They noticed one of the altimeters was misreading (in the case of a single failed altimeter, the book says you can continue with caution), but they didn't pick up that the airspeed indications were erroneous (they weren't significantly out until the aircraft was at altitude).
In that situation (pithc black outside, remember) you have a reading that says you're going too fast, so you slow down. They were not trained to spot the signs of covered pitot tubes (since added to all 757 training) and so followed their instruments. To attempt to blame them for the accident is a tad harsh. to say the least.
Last edited by DozyWannabe; 6th Apr 2006 at 11:17.