Safety Update

Safety Update: Safety in the Air

Last week's emergency landing of US Airways flight 1549 in the Hudson River was spectacular and it was a miracle that everyone survived. It is also an example of how well trained and prepared the pilot and flight crew were in dealing with a real life emergency.

Due diligence and a corporate safety culture of taking a proactive approach to being prepared for the worst possible scenario has resulted in air travel being one of the safest forms of transportation. Over the past 10 years, the commercial airline industry has seen a decrease in the fatal accident rate. However, accidents still occur and most passengers are complacent when it comes to air travel. By and large, selecting the seat by the emergency exit of an aircraft is more about the extra leg room than the ability of the passenger to open the hatch. A recent NY Times article, written after the crash landing of US Airways flight 1549, points out how passengers are now paying attention to the important safety briefings. But how long will it be before this incident is forgotten and passengers become complacent again, returning to chatting, reading or playing with their mobile phones during the crew announcement? It should be part of corporate safety culture to proactivelly approach travel like any other job related hazard - through training.

In the event you have to evacate an aircraft via the emergency exit the conditions will be less than favourable. Visibility may be reduced due to smoke, fire, lack of sunlight or being submerged as was the case with flight 1549. The aircraft may also be on its side or even inverted depending on the circumstances. So, how do you extricate yourself from an aircraft in peril?

Firstly, as you board the aircraft and find your seat, become familiar with the location of the nearest emergency exit and count the number of rows to that exit. In an emergency you may have to feel your way to that exit so you know where it is. Remember the nearest exit may be behind you so look all around.

Listen to the safety briefing and follow along by referring to the safety features card located in the seat pocket in front of you. If you are seated next to the emergency exit a few points to consider are:

• The hatch may weigh from 20 to 40 kg depending on the aircraft.
• Look outside to ensure that there are no obstructions including fire or debris and that it is safe to proceed.
• The hatch is a plug type meaning that it is larger than the hole it is meant to secure. To open the hatch:
  • Pull it into the cabin
  • Rotate it 90 degrees
  • Push it out through the opening
• Leave all of your belongings behind as they will only get in the way and impede your evacuation.
• Always keep your shoes on during every take off and landing. There will be no time to put your shoes back on in an emergency situation.
• Once you have cleared the aircraft proceed to a safe distance preferable up wind from the scene.
• Stay calm and follow the directions given to you by the flight crew.

Air travel is safe and accidents rarely occur however safety isn't just the responsibility of the air carrier and its employees, it is also the responsibility of passengers.

About the author - Tom Zeiser of Pegasus Presentations has combined his mastery of public speaking, intense passion for flying and experience as a top salesperson to develop unrivalled seminars and presentation for the aviation industry - "Sales Training for Flight Schools", the "Skies Are Safe" and the "Passenger Awareness Program". If you or your organization is interested in learning more please contact Tom Zeiser or visit www.eCompliance.ca.

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