What is flight safety?
Flight safety refers to a group of practices and processes established to guarantee the safety of both passengers and personnel on the aircraft. These practices adhere to internationally recognized aviation regulations, which were established to reduce risk by proactively addressing potential hazards that may arise during the flight. Ultimately, aviation safety regulations are meant to ensure a safe flight and a safe arrival at the destination.
Use of electronic devices during flight
Pre-flight safety guidelines include switching mobile phones and other devices (tablets, etc.) to airplane mode or turning them off completely. Cell phones transmit radio waves when they connect with base stations; these signals could potentially interfere with the sensitive electronic systems used on the aircraft, including navigation, radar, and communication systems, thus leading to the transmission of incorrect data between the aircraft and the tower. For your safety and the safety of your fellow passengers, it is essential to turn off your devices or switch them to airplane mode prior to the flight’s departure.
Use of cigarettes and other tobacco products
To ensure the safety of the aircraft and the well-being and comfort of your fellow passengers, the use of all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, is not permitted on board. Smoking poses a high risk: cigarettes, if not properly extinguished, could cause a fire on the aircraft. Smoking in spaces on the aircraft, like restrooms, will trigger smoke detectors, leading to unnecessary panic among the flight crew and passengers. As for vaping or electronic cigarettes, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, “electronic smoking devices, like vapes and e-cigarettes, contain lithium batteries and are considered dangerous goods due to their risk of smoke, fire and extreme heat.” In fact, these devices were the leading cause of lithium battery incidents on aircraft in 2022!
The vital importance of seat belts
One of the best practices for safe air travel is to always comply with the seat belt warning light. If you’re standing when the seat belt warning light activates, return to your seat, sit down, and secure your seat belt. Staying seated and fastening your seatbelt could save you from serious injuries or even death should the aircraft encounter turbulence.
Prohibited items: Do not bring on board
Airplane safety regulations state that the presence of flammable, explosive, and sharp objects on board is strictly prohibited at all times. Acidic liquids and gaseous substances can readily ignite and explode due to various factors. Consequently, and in consideration of your safety as well as the safety of your fellow passengers and the aircraft itself, these substances are not permitted on board the airplane. If you’re carrying any of these items, you must surrender them to security during the security check or dispose of them in the trash prior to boarding the plane.
Below is a list of substances and products that are not permitted in the aircraft:
- Explosive and flammable substances: Fireworks, lithium batteries, deodorant, hair spray, spray paint, lighter fluid, flammable paints, gel candles, bleach, detergent, and liquids containing chemicals like acid and salt spirit.
- Cutting and piercing tools: Knives, cutlasses, scissors, nail clippers, razor blades, skewers, needles.
Follow the instructions of the cabin crew
Aircraft cabin crew are skilled professionals equipped to handle any situation that may occur during the flight. As cabin crew, their primary purpose is to ensure that cabin safety protocols are followed and that passengers adhere to in-flight safety rules. For passengers, compliance with the instructions issued by the cabin crew is essential in order to maintain both passenger comfort and flight safety. These instructions usually include guidelines on the proper use of safety equipment such as oxygen masks and seat belts, as well as emergency evacuation procedures.
Passengers who don’t follow the rules
Individuals who disrupt the experience of fellow travelers during a flight, disregard the directives of the cabin crew, and display hostile behavior are categorized as unruly passengers. These passengers could pose a risk to flight safety. Thus, in accordance with passenger and aircraft safety regulations, security forces are alerted prior to the flight when necessary, and passengers who are deemed to be a threat in any way are removed from the aircraft. These passengers could potentially face airline-wide blacklisting or placement on a “no-fly” list specific to one or more airlines.
The importance of clothing choice in a crisis
While some airlines do apply certain dress codes for passengers, in fact, the attire you choose to wear on board can play a significant role in your safety. Should there be a fire on the aircraft, synthetic fabrics like polyester can rapidly catch fire and melt, leading to skin burns. Natural fibers like wool, silk, denim, and leather offer superior protection in the event of a fire; loose clothing that allows movement can enhance your safety, as can comfortable shoes.
