Ever questioned why cabin crew ask you to stow the tray tables throughout takeoff and touchdown, and what might presumably occur if you don’t?
The United Nations’ Worldwide Civil Aviation Group (ICAO) Guide on Data and Directions for Passenger Security, by way of its regulatory authority — the Directorate Common of Civil Aviation (DGCA) within the case of India — is required to mandate operators (airways) by way of applicable rules to offer security briefings to passengers. As a part of this briefing, security demonstrations and bulletins are carried out by the cabin crew earlier than takeoff and touchdown.
Along with instructing passengers to maintain the window blinds open, these security procedures embody fastening seat belts, holding seat backs and tray tables within the upright place, and making certain correct storage of cabin baggage. “As per ICAO tips, each verbal and visible demonstrations are important to boost passenger security and enhance their response and survivability throughout emergencies,” stated Dhairyashil Vandekar, an aviation skilled and analyst.
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Specialists additionally level out that in a crash, objects like tray tables can dislodge and will develop into flying particles, which may irritate additional accidents.
Right here’s what it’s essential to take into account (Picture: Freepik)
Based on Vandekar, a tray desk, used for serving meals and drinks, can develop into a hazard throughout evacuation if left open. “To forestall damage throughout potential turbulence or accidents, tray tables are stowed,” stated Vandekar, including it could additionally hamper the security of the passengers because it obstructs their exit in an emergency.
Notably, takeoff and touchdown are extensively recognised as essentially the most crucial phases of flight, with roughly 80 per cent of plane accidents reported to happen throughout these intervals, he stated.
Furthermore, a stowed tray desk permits the crew to maneuver freely by way of the aisles to help throughout emergencies.
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Concurring, Colonel Rajgopalan, founder, Aviation Coaching India, stated a deployed tray desk throughout takeoff or touchdown might trigger damage to passengers, particularly throughout an affect or emergency evacuation. “In an emergency, having tray tables upright ensures a transparent path for passengers to evacuate the plane shortly and safely,” stated Rajagopalan.