Depending on how much damage was incurred during contact, since they were already flying predominantly the same direction & speed, at a higher altitude they mig

Depending on how much damage was incurred during contact, since they were already flying predominantly the same direction & speed, at a higher altitude they might have uncoupled and regained controlled flight. Examples of more grievously damaged airplanes have landed in the past. I don't think they had any real hope if they stayed joined, tho.