Why are passengers not allowed to board from the right side of the plane?
The reason why passengers always board from the left side of the plane can be partly explained by practicality and partly by convention. Safety is the most important factor.
According to former pilot Dan Bubb, who is now a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, many activities related to the aircraft take place on the right side. Ground staff refuel the plane, load and unload checked baggage, transport cargo, serve food and drinks on the plane… so it would be very dangerous if passengers boarded the plane from the right side, where there are many vehicles and equipment in operation.
This becomes even more important when passengers disembark from the plane using stairs instead of jet bridges. In this case, passengers and the flight crew need to be kept safe and away from any potential dangerous activities happening on the other side.
After landing and preparing to disembark the plane, anyone can look out the right side window and see ground staff working with specialized vehicles. They have to complete their tasks quickly so the plane can turn around and perform the next flight. The right side of the plane is reserved for their work.
The second reason is that passengers boarding and disembarking from the left side helps the pilot easily align the jet bridge with the plane.
According to Vishnu Ravi, an aerospace engineer on the Quora forum, this helps the pilot accurately position the aircraft door to the terminal building. If not done correctly, the wing of the plane could collide with the building.
Another explanation for passengers always boarding the plane from the left side is a convention from the naval era when people boarded and disembarked from the left side (port side) of ships.
In the Maritime industry, the term “port and starboard” is commonly used, with “port” referring to the left side. In the past, sailors used oars to steer the boat, and because most people are right-handed, the oar was placed on the right side of the boat. When the boat docked, the left side of the boat would be next to the dock. Therefore, the left side is where cargo is loaded and passengers board and disembark. The Aviation industry emerged after the Maritime industry and followed this convention, with passengers boarding and disembarking from the left side.
In the Aviation industry, the left side is where passengers and the flight crew board and disembark, while the right side is the “service door” used for refueling, loading/unloading baggage, meals, etc.
Explore 12 Amazing Destinations for Biking Trips
Unlock Vietnam in a brand new way with an exciting biking tour! Discover the stunning beauty of the country with Dien May XANH’s top 12 must-see destinations. From sweeping plains to clear blue beaches and mountainous vistas – experience all the sights with your own personal cycling tour. Find your ideal route and set out for an adventure today!
How to Properly Use and Maintain a Blender
In the summer heat, cool smoothies can be quickly prepared with the help of a blender. To ensure it works well and lasts for many years, with good maintenance and regular cleaning, the blender should be well-taken care of.
“How to Avoid Common Mistakes while Charging Your Phone Battery”
Are you sure you’re charging your phone correctly? Learn about the 10 most common mistakes people make when trying to keep their phones powered up and how to avoid them with this informative article. Check it out now!
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Arranging Furniture
Organizing a room can seem like a daunting task, but with the right information it can become much simpler. Read on to find out how you can maximize your space and make the arrangement of furniture in your room look more beautiful.
How to Cut Down on Fuel Usage When Cooking
Families across the nation are striving to find ways to maximize their cost savings while still guaranteeing safety when utilizing a gas stove.
