How to Survive an Airplane Crash

A Flight Attendant's Advice

© May Flowers

Feb 12, 2009
US Airways Airplane, May Flowers
There are several things passengers can do to prepare for an airplane crash. Following a few simple steps before take-off could save passengers lives.

Traditionally airline passengers become very contentious about safety shortly after an airplane crash. They pay close attention to the safety demonstration and they carefully read their safety information cards.

Within a few weeks passengers are back to chitchatting on their cell phones, and sleeping during the safety demonstration. On January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 turned out to be a text book blueprint to surviving an airplane crash. Being prepared before the flight takes off could save many passengers lives. Follow these guidlines before the flight.

Dress For Safety

Avoid dressing in trendy, non-practical clothing. Do not dress for style when flying. Dress for mobility, comfort, and safety.

  • Dress in layers and keep jackets on for take off and landing, just encase the airplane crashes in frigid weather.
  • Don’t wear flip-flops or high-healed shoes that prevent mobility.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants for protection.
  • Remove all sharp objects from pockets, that could cause injuries.
  • Avoid wearing synthetic products such as pantyhose or some hair extensions. Synthetics will melt to the skin in a fire.

Choose Seats Wisely

Request an isle seat as close as possible to an exit, which allows for quick egress into the isle. Being blocked in by passengers and their belongings can slow down window seat passengers.

The best seat is in the emergency exit. Passengers who sit in the emergency exit rows may have to evacuate the aircraft. Flight attendants will ask if they are capable of assisting the crew in the event of an emergency. If assigned an emergency exit row seat:

  • Know how to open the exit.
  • Avoid sitting in the exit row if you are not capable, or willing to assist in an evacuation.

Fly In A Good State Of Mind

Many passengers like to have a few drinks or take sleeping pills before the flight in order to relax. Avoid flying inebriated or taking any medications. Do not take anything before, or during the flight that may cause poor judgment, slow down mobility, or impair critical thinking skills.

Airplane crashes happen very quickly, and there is no time to sober up. Passengers need all their wits to survive, and the aftermath that may follow.

Pay Attention To The Safety Demonstration

Flight attendants are required to physically demonstrate or to play a safety video for passengers to watch prior to take-off. Airplanes are not all the same. Therefore, passengers should pay attention to each individual demonstration.

  • Read the safety information card and follow along with the flight attendants as they demonstrate the safety instructions.
  • Feel for the life vest under the seat, and know how to inflate it.
  • Know the brace position.
  • Know where the oxygen masks drop from, and remember to put the oxygen mask on before assisting others.

Know The Way Out

Passengers should take the time to familiarize themselves with all airplane exits, this is one of the most important things that airline passengers can do before take-off.

  • Find exits on the safety information card.
  • Visually locate all exits
  • Don’t assume all airplanes have an exit in the back. Visually check to see if there is a rear exit. Attempting to evacuate where there is no exit could be a fatal mistake.

Don't be complacent and wait until there is an airplane crash to have an interest in airplane safety. All airline passengers should be prepared for the unexpected on every flight they take. Following this advice, could help you to survive an airplane crash, and save your life.


The copyright of the article How to Survive an Airplane Crash in Aviation is owned by May Flowers. Permission to republish How to Survive an Airplane Crash in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


US Airways Airplane, May Flowers
       


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