Isn't explosive decompression reason enough to always suspect structural failure?
Would I be using a 45 degree AoB turn? Absolutely not. Why? Because I want the autopilot engaged. The Boeing depressurisation checklist does not talk about turning off an airway - it is only mentioned in the manoeuvres section, with an "if required". If you're on a very busy airway, and you know there is traffic around, then you would be turning before/as you are descending... its about getting down to your altitude safely. If there is no traffic you know of, then I would be descending straight ahead, and once established in the descent, consider the turn. You still have TCAS, and ATC will attempt to get people out of your way where possible.
Rapid descents are never performed "that" quickly that you need to be pushing 0g over the top, or rolling rediculous attitudes to get down quicker. Yes, they may save a second or two... but it is far more important to keep the autopilot engaged and conduct a controlled manoeuvre.
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