Pay Attention to the Safety Demonstration
Before a plane takes off, it might be tempting to put on your headphones and tune out the world. However, experts emphasize the importance of paying attention during the safety demonstration conducted by flight attendants. This is a critical moment when you can learn essential information about emergency procedures. Take the time to review the aircraft safety card as well. Familiarize yourself with the location of exit doors and how to use them in case of an emergency.
Rimmer, an aviation safety expert, agrees that the best time to prepare for an accident or in-flight emergency is before it happens. Being proactive can make a significant difference in survival chances.
Consider Booking a Middle Seat
While the middle seat may not be the most comfortable, some experts suggest it could offer a slight advantage in certain crash scenarios. Bubb notes that the middle seat is often considered the best, though it's not guaranteed to be significantly safer. For example, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a survivor of the Air India crash, was seated in seat 11A, which is a window seat. Similarly, James Ruangsak Loychusak, a Thai singer and actor, survived a Thai Airways crash while sitting in the same seat 27 years prior.
Despite these cases, experts caution that there is no "miracle seat." Aircraft configurations vary, and factors such as the nature of the crash and the availability of emergency exits play a crucial role in survival. Each accident is unique, and no single seat can guarantee safety.
Opt for the Back of the Plane or an Exit Row
When considering the safest part of the plane to sit, two options stand out: the rear of the aircraft and the emergency exit row. The rear of the plane acts as a shock absorber during a crash, according to Bubb. Rimmer also supports this idea, stating that historical data suggests sitting in the rear increases survival odds, although it depends on the specific circumstances of the accident.
The emergency exit row is another viable option. Rimmer prefers sitting near an emergency exit over the wing, citing comfort during turbulence and better access to exits. Interestingly, Ramesh’s seat on the Air India flight was in an emergency exit row, highlighting the potential benefits of this seating choice.
Dress Appropriately
When flying, it's important to dress sensibly rather than making a fashion statement. Bubb advises wearing nonflammable, loose-fitting clothing that can keep you warm in case of a plane ditching. Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, denim, or leather are recommended, while synthetic materials should be avoided due to their tendency to melt when exposed to heat.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasizes that wearing sensible clothing can reduce the risk of serious injury in an emergency. Covering as much skin as possible is also advised to provide additional protection.
Wear the Right Type of Shoes
In addition to appropriate clothing, choosing the right shoes is crucial. Bubb recommends durable, close-toed shoes and warns against open-toed footwear like flip-flops. The FAA suggests low-heeled leather or canvas shoes, as they allow for quick and efficient evacuation. High heels should be avoided because they can puncture the emergency slide, and passengers may even be required to remove them in an emergency.
Bring a Car Seat for Young Children
If your child is small enough to fit in a car seat, Bubb recommends bringing one for them to use on the plane. If they are too big, ensure they wear their seat belt at all times. Rimmer adds that parents should avoid misrepresenting their child’s age to travel on their lap, as the FAA strongly discourages this practice. Instead, purchasing a seat and using an approved car seat is the safer option.
Follow Directions
In the event of an emergency, flight attendants will guide passengers through the necessary steps. Even if you feel panicked, remember that cabin crew members are trained to handle various scenarios, including plane crashes. Rimmer emphasizes the importance of following their directions and leaving belongings behind. Their instructions can be crucial in ensuring your safety during a crisis.
Brace for Impact
During a crash, flight attendants will provide instructions on how to brace for impact. The best position involves tucking your head down and placing your arms or hands on your head to protect your head and neck. While this is usually not included in the safety demonstration to avoid alarming passengers, the information is available on aircraft safety cards. In an actual emergency, flight attendants will clearly explain the correct bracing technique.
Protect Yourself from Smoke
Some plane crashes produce smoke, which can be dangerous if inhaled. Bubb suggests using a piece of cloth to create a mask and staying low to the floor, as smoke rises. Flight attendants will direct passengers on how to evacuate the plane, and if the smoke is thick, a flashlight can help navigate through it.
Leave Your Bag and Grab Supplies
In the event of a crash, do not attempt to retrieve your carry-on bag from the overhead bins. Leave it and follow the flight attendants’ instructions. Bubb explains that attempting to take your bag with you can delay your escape and endanger others. However, if water, food, or other necessities are easily accessible, grab them on your way out.
Move Away from the Plane
After surviving a crash, the first step is to move away from the wreckage to a safe location. Bubb warns of the potential for explosions if fire comes into contact with jet fuel. Avoid slowing down to capture pictures or videos, as Rimmer advises. Once you're safe, seek help if possible. If your cellphone has a signal, call for assistance. If not, find the nearest road or house to get help.
About the Experts
Dan Bubb, PhD, is a former airline pilot and current aviation safety expert and professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He writes and teaches about commercial aviation.
David Rimmer is the CEO of AB Aviation and a senior associate at GoCrisis. He is also an aviation safety expert who previously served as a board member for the Air Charter Safety Foundation. In 2006, he was one of seven survivors of a major midair accident between a Gol Airlines Boeing 737-800 and an Embraer Legacy 600 business jet—the deadliest in Brazilian aviation history at the time—which killed 154 people on the airliner.
