All details of airplanes and trains are carefully designed and calculated. Perhaps that’s why they are the safest means of transportation to faraway places.
If you pay attention, you will notice that the windows of these vehicles are designed in an oval and rounded shape. This small detail was once overlooked by designers but it turned out to be the cause of plane accidents.
Why are airplane and train windows oval-shaped?
In the early 1950s, the world’s first commercial jetliner was developed and produced by De Havilland. It was considered a miracle in the aviation industry. However, after one year of use, the plane broke into pieces in the sky, and a few months later, two more planes shared the same fate.
Engineers meticulously examined every aspect of the plane and found that the square-shaped windows were the main cause. The right angles of the windows tend to bear the highest pressure, much more than other parts, which can weaken the overall structure of the windows. This can lead to cracks and other incidents inside the cabin.
On the other hand, rounded angles can distribute the pressure evenly along the entire curve and avoid concentration at one point or angle when subjected to continuous and rapid mechanical movements. Therefore, engineers decided to replace the square windows on airplanes with circular or oval ones to prolong the lifespan of the vehicles and prevent accidents.
Gradually, this trend of rounded windows was applied to other means of public transportation, especially trains. That’s why windows on airplanes, trains, and other vehicles are designed to be rounded.
Furthermore, the oval shape also allows passengers to have a wider view and enjoy the scenery outside more easily.
The reason why airplane and train windows are oval-shaped.
Why do the emergency exit covers need to be opened during takeoff and landing?
Air safety experts revealed that takeoff and landing are the most critical stages of a flight, and most accidents occur during these two phases. The emergency exit covers need to be opened so that if an emergency situation arises, the flight crew can quickly determine which side of the aircraft is safest to use as an emergency exit.
In addition, opening the window shades during takeoff and landing also has the following benefits:
Passengers usually enjoy looking out the window, so they can quickly notice any abnormalities outside, such as damage to the wings, engines, or unfamiliar objects, and report them to the crew.
For daytime flights, opening the window shades helps passengers’ eyes adjust to the light better. In case of emergency, sudden changes in light contrast won’t harm their vision.
For nighttime flights, if an incident occurs, rescue personnel on the ground can easily observe what’s happening inside the aircraft through the open windows.
Source: VTC.vn
Flight attendants advise against wearing flip-flops on the plane, why?
While there are no specific regulations on passenger attire when traveling by plane, flight attendants advise against wearing flip flops.
