Plane Crash Survival: Studies Favor Rear Seat Safety

Why in the news?

Recent crashes of Azerbaijan Airlines and Jeju Air highlighted rear-section survivability, sparking discussions. Studies and experiments reaffirmed statistical trends suggesting passengers in the rear have better chances of survival in certain crash scenarios.

Plane Crash Survival: Studies Favor Rear Seat Safety

Recent Plane Crash Incidents:

  • Azerbaijan Airlines Flight (December 25):
    • Crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, due to a suspected accidental hit by Russian air defense.
    • Of 67 onboard, 38 died, but survivors were primarily from the rear section of the aircraft, which sustained less damage.
  • Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 (December 29):
    • Emergency landing at Muan International Airport, South Korea, after landing gear failed.
    • The plane crashed into a wall; only two of 181 passengers survived, both pulled from the tail section.

Key Considerations:

  • Crash dynamics vary: Tail-first crashes may lead to higher fatalities in the rear.
  • FAA stance: No section of an aircraft is inherently safer. Following crew instructions remains the best precaution.
  • Survival randomness: In many cases, survivors and fatalities are scattered unpredictably.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times