Safe in the Sky? Cabin Crew Earn Their Pay
The rule is 90 seconds. No matter how large or small an aircraft may be, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that aircraft manufacturers demonstrate that full occupancy, which includes passengers and flight crew, is able to exit an airliner safely within those allocated 90 seconds. Even Airbus's A380, the 555 passenger double-decker jet, demonstrated it was capable -- see video here. Yet these tests are simulated and do not reflect real-life events. Passengers on-board simulated evacuations are well-briefed and prepared for the simulation. What about on everyday flights? Do passengers pay enough attention to safety demonstrations? Can you trust the person sitting next to you in an emergency?
A routine for most travelers, passengers seem not to be concerned with safety briefings. From what I have observed during safety demonstrations, you will probably find a few people asleep, others reading, some looking out the window, and perhaps a few sneaking in quick last text messages. Although safety procedures may be routine, a different flight could mean a different aircraft, and a different aircraft means it will have different safety procedures. While airlines and manufacturers aim for consistency and simplicity, the attention of passengers during safety announcements is vital.
David Parker Brown, owner and founder of AirlineReporter.com, spent two days at AirTran Airways's flight attendant training program in Atlanta, GA. "I know after I sat in on the mock crash landing with AirTran, I originally forgot my life vest, but now I pay attention to see if there is a life vest under my seat and I make sure I know how to use it," said Brown.
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