Originally Posted by
aerobat77
well , we can only discuss currently available data but when only the published speed of 350-360 kmh is correct the flaps up theory as only reason cannot be valid.
why ? because when he was able to reach 360 kmh with a fully functioning aircraft and all engines developing rated thrust he would get away with this even when the fo selected flaps up since 360 kmh starts to be sufficient to stay airborne even in clean configuration. so this accident would never happen but it happened.
there is surely more in this than the fo grabs the wrong lever after takeoff.
If flaps were retracted too soon and a/c lost lift it may be that they reached 350kmh nose down but it was not enough to arrest descent before hitting sea surface. Out of height, out of options. But the poor souls were maybe closer to salvation than we may think.