A downpour of praise from global experts is being bestowed upon the Japan Airlines flight attendants who saved hundreds of lives following an accident.
“Miracle” is the only word to describe the escape of 379 people aboard Japan Airlines Flight 516. As passengers watched in horror, flames engulfed the windows and smoke filled the cabin. Yet, the flight attendants of Japan Airlines remained calm and focused, drawing on their extensive safety training.
The core issue was to get everyone out of the plane as soon as possible, as staying inside reduced the chances of survival. Ultimately, all 367 passengers and 12 crew members evacuated within 20 minutes.
The crew’s actions during those critical moments averted a potential tragedy. Amazingly, no one sustained serious injuries. They are being applauded for their composure and professionalism.
Michele Robson, a former air traffic controller, commented that the crew did an excellent job of evacuating 367 passengers under challenging circumstances.
“It’s natural for passengers to panic when they see flames,” she said. “The collision would have caused great concern for those on board, but the crew performed admirably.”
John Cox, a pilot from the United States, attributed the successful outcome to the crew’s excellent training. Their focus was on getting passengers off the plane quickly, and they were among the last to leave.
Aviation experts believe that the unwavering calmness of the flight attendants, combined with the passengers’ high level of cooperation and adherence to safety protocols, averted a major disaster.
Paul Hayes, Aviation Safety Director at Ascend by Cirium, a UK-based aviation consulting firm, called it a miracle. “The crew performed exceptionally well,” he said. “Not a single passenger took their carry-on luggage with them during the evacuation.”
Leaving Belongings Behind During Evacuation
A study by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University found that passengers who take their carry-on luggage during emergency evacuations not only slow down the process but also put themselves and others at risk.
In an emergency, the priority should be to leave everything behind and get out as quickly as possible. This maximizes the chances of survival for everyone.
The Japan Airlines crew reminded passengers not to take their carry-on luggage during the evacuation. This ensured that the escape routes remained unobstructed and facilitated a smoother evacuation. Additionally, carrying luggage could have damaged the evacuation slides, causing injuries.
“It’s remarkable that they got everyone off the plane so quickly,” said Steve Creamer, an aviation safety consultant and former senior director at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). “It speaks volumes about the crew’s discipline and the compliance of the passengers. The benefits of not having passengers take their luggage are clear.”
According to experts, there are four key things passengers should remember in the event of an emergency evacuation while onboard an aircraft:
1. Always follow the instructions of the crew. They are there not just to serve but also to ensure your safety. They are trained in safety procedures and will guide you through this challenging situation.
2. Prioritize a quick exit from the plane due to the high risk of smoke inhalation.
3. Leave all luggage behind, including carry-on items. Do not attempt to retrieve items from overhead compartments. If wearing high-heeled shoes, consider removing them and holding them in your hand while using the evacuation slide.
4. Remain calm and composed throughout the evacuation process.
Why do flight attendants secretly bring a banana on board? Is it a good thing?
You may not know that most flight attendants often carry a banana on board to ensure their well-being.
Flight attendants often bring a banana on board: Turns out, it’s for this purpose
Most flight attendants have a habit of carrying a banana with them when flying, leaving many people wondering about their purpose.
Tips from flight attendants on using the restroom on an airplane
Whether it’s your first time flying or you’re a frequent traveler, many people still don’t know how to use the airplane restroom properly to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Why do flight attendants choose to sleep overnight in a hotel instead of going home after landing?
Why do many flight attendants choose to stay in hotels instead of going home after their flights land?
Why don’t flight attendants go home after landing and often go straight to a 5-star hotel, what do they do there?
After finishing work, many flight attendants will go straight to a 5-star hotel instead of going home. What do they do there?
