It’s a common misconception that flying is dangerous. Why not stay on the ground – drive or ride in a car to get where you need to go, that vehicle that won’t fall out of the sky? The reality is, statistically, you’re far more likely to arrive safe and alive at your destination if you take an airplane as your mode of transportation over that car, truck or other ground vehicle. If you can take a plane – take a plane! But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to think about flight safety!
If you’re thinking of a career in the industry – as a flight attendant or pilot – or even if you’re just someone who wants to travel through the air a lot, it’s good to know as much about airplanes and airplane safety as possible.
On a typical private plane, the crew will consist usually of a pilot, co-pilot and flight attendant. If you’re an executive or someone else who often flies on private planes or is interested in obtaining a pilot’s license, for your own peace of mind, it’s a great idea to become familiar with in-flight safety and protocols in case of emergency. Though extremely rare, they do occur; and with a small crew, the more people in the know on-board, the better.
While the face of a private jet’s crew is its superior customer service, what the customer doesn’t often see is the serious professionalism beneath the smiles and hospitality. Under normal circumstances, the customer’s wants come first and a flight attendant will see to them without question. In an emergency, though, that same flight attendant must be able to step up and take charge. Leadership skills are a must. The flight attendant and pilots know where any medical equipment is stored on an aircraft in case it’s needed, or where there’s an ax in case of an emergency landing if a door won’t open and an evacuation is necessary. The crew will have to calm passengers and make sure they listen and take orders from the people tasked with keeping them safe and alive. Those pre-flight safety talks aren’t just for show.
Flight attendants must also know how to put out a fire in-flight and operate life vests and rafts. There are even courses in self-defense. Of course, they learn basic life-saving skills such as becoming certified in CPR and how to handle someone who might be bleeding, just like paramedic would.
While flying is safe and convenient, it’s also isolated and difficult to reach help during the most dire emergencies. That smiling face greeting you at the cabin door might save your life an hour later. Isn’t it wonderful to know you’re in such capable hands?
