The flight gate’s open… Holiday Travels.

We want to go on a vacation and spend time with loved ones now that the holidays are here. At this moment, our most pressing necessity is the completion of the necessary preparation and airline reservations. In recent years, I have been traveling for both personal and professional reasons, but nothing quite like what I am about to reveal here. I felt compelled to share this information with you because it appeared in my feeds and made me realize how easily I take it for granted when I fly.

Scanning for a seat, you board another long trip. “We are here seat 32B.” Two sturdy guys are seated in 32A and C when you gaze down. “Oh my god…,” Umm…There are many unoccupied seats here. “Now is the time to switch the seat! (I’m guilty)” But not too soon! The entire plane might be in danger! First of all, it’s likely not just you who is trying to pull that ‘stunt’. The plane could become unbalanced even if only a few people do it! Changes in the center of gravity of an aircraft can have drastic effects because most of them are quite sensitive to such changes especially the small planes.

To make precise estimates before takeoff, pilots need to be aware of the weight distribution within the aircraft. There is a possibility that the airplane will crash when taking off if these calculations are even somewhat incorrect. Even if the worst does not manifest, passengers changing seats without alerting the crew might still cause pilots to lose major control of the aircraft. There is emphasis to remain seated during take-off and during the planes decent to landing all for the same reason of weight distribution.

For instance, if merely four people move to the front of the cabin and abandon their designated seats, this will make it difficult for the pilot to place the aircraft in the proper position. A short runway at some airports, will make the situation critical. The plane may not be able  to halt if something  goes wrong! It can also affect the plane’s balance if airport employees load bags improperly, such as placing them in the back compartment rather than the front. Here, the aircraft’s nose may pitch up too quickly. Though an inaccurate takeoff might be extremely dangerous, you might believe that would only help get the jet airborne!

Nevertheless, this does not preclude you from rearranging your seat at all throughout your flight. However, confirm with a member of the cabin crew that you are permitted to do so before settling into a more cozy or roomy location. Furthermore, if they decline, don’t be shocked or insulted! To ensure a safe flight, you should abide by more rules than just the one about “No Seat-Hopping.” These are few more that you should bear in mind before your next excursion above 30,000 feet!

 As soon as the aircraft moves on the tarmac, you should always fasten your tray table; do not let it drop during takeoff or landing. It’s a safety precaution that guarantees you and other travelers will have an unobstructed passage in the event of an emergency evacuation. “- For both takeoff and landing, keep your seat upright. Since it will obstruct the person seated behind you, a reclined seat can significantly slow down an evacuation, much like a lowered tray table.

 In addition, in the event of a crash landing, it will be extremely difficult for the occupant of the seat facing rearward to assume the brace position. When choosing a flight, select a larger aircraft if you have the option. Even tighter criteria apply to the design and certification of aircraft carrying more than thirty seats.

 In the event of an accident, your chances of survival are higher while flying in a larger aircraft. Keep in mind that there is increased responsibility when seated close to an emergency exit in addition to extra legroom. It will be your responsibility to assist other evacuees from the aircraft. Only adults who are physically capable can therefore occupy these seats.

 Furthermore, in order to know what to do in the event of an emergency, all must read emergency exit safety cards. When taking off and landing, heed the directions of the cabin staff to open the window coverings. In this manner, flight attendants may monitor the external environment, evaluate the circumstances, and promptly take action if any external events indicate that an evacuation is required. One of the engines, for instance, might be the source of the smoke or fire.

They will also be aware to lead passengers to another door in the event of a fire outside one exit. If you can, try to fly nonstop and without any stops. The first three and last eight minutes of a flight are when the vast majority of plane crashes occur. Stated differently, that occurs during the takeoff, ascent, descent, and landing. Fly nonstop if the price difference isn’t very large. By doing this, you can reduce the length of your travel and lower your chance of having an accident during those particularly risky times.

When flying, anything can happen. Ascertain that every device you bring on your trip has backup files stored on an external hard drive or in the cloud. Anticipate that at some time in your journey, you may misplace your electronic device. By dressing appropriately, you can lower your chance of injury when flying. Opt for clothing composed of natural fibers like denim, wool, cotton, and leather. In an evacuation or fire, they will provide you with the best protection. When heated, synthetic materials like polyester and nylon readily melt. Additionally, your clothing should be loose-fitting and comfy so that you may walk around comfortably. Choose long sleeves and pants so that you may cover as much of your body as possible and, if necessary, get warmth and protection.

Lastly, be mindful of your footwear. There is an escape slide to get off the aircraft, so please take off any sandals, flip-flops, or high heels before you board. That will only delay down the evacuation process and increase the chance that you will cut yourself on glass or metal debris.

When cabin lights are turned down prior to a nighttime takeoff and landing, don’t freak out or voice complaints. In the event of an emergency evacuation, this basic safety protocol enables your eyes to adjust more quickly. Picture yourself in a bright room that is packed full of various objects. Suddenly, the light goes out, and someone orders you to leave this room as soon as possible. I assume you would find it difficult. However, if your eyes have previously acclimated to the low light, you should be able to distinguish emergency lights and evacuation signs in the aisle in the event that the cabin fills with smoke or the power goes out.

Pay close attention to what the cabin crew is saying. Never forget that the purpose of these personnel is to ensure your safety. Thus, if you are asked to do anything by one of them, comply at first and inquire later. In addition, never pour hot liquids by yourself, such as tea or coffee. In the narrow, congested passageways of a moving aircraft, flight attendants are trained to perform this task without burning you or other passengers!

Create a “run kit” and make sure you always have it with you. A kit like this should include your ID, wallet, cell phone, credit cards, cash, and any prescription drugs you may need, along with a contact list in case of emergency. If you misplace any of these items in the chaos of an evacuation, they are generally hard to replace. For the duration of the flight, carry them about with you in a pocket or fanny pack. Leave your purse and the carry-on bag you packed with clothes and toiletries! Recall that in the event of an evacuation, you only have ninety seconds to exit the airplane.

Avoid cramming large items into overhead lockers. In really erratic conditions, they may come fall off and hurt you or other passengers. Store it somewhere or under the seat in front of you if lifting something into the overhead bin feels uncomfortable. Not only should you read the safety instructions in the seat pack in front of you, but those seated close to the emergency exits should also!

The basic features of the plane you’re on should be familiar to you because plane layouts vary greatly. This information could save your life in the worst case scenario. Pay close attention to and watch the pre-flight safety briefing for the same reason every time. Report any suspicious behavior or odd-looking parcels to a security officer (if you’re still at the airport) or the cabin crew (if you’re already on the plane). Although it’s probably nothing to worry about, it’s best to be cautious than sorry.

 The safest seat on the aircraft is usually not available, therefore searching for it could be a waste of time. An exit may not work after an accident, even if it’s close to you. Even though an aisle seat can help you escape a situation faster in the event of an emergency, falling things from overhead bins can potentially injure you.

Really, consider it like this. Better be safe than sorry. If you were not aware about this information, now you know!

Travel safe and Happy Holidays!!