How to travel safely aboard an aircraft

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Although the recent figures from the International Civil Aviation Organisation suggests that flying is perfectly safe, you should still take some safety precautions. 

The highest number of fatalities occur on a motorcycle, which is 3000 times more risky than flying. Travelling in a truck or car is about 100 times more dangerous and train travel is about twice as deadly, per kilometre travelled, than flying. But, survival is always a numbers game and you should try to stack the odds in your favour.

6 Ways to fly in safety

  1. Check- in early and move through security to the airside area as quickly as possible. The majority of shootings occur in the landside area of an airport.
  2. Always carry some EDC kit with you, preferably in your pockets or a tactical belt. Such kit could include a tactical pen for defence; a tactical torch; foreign currency to pay for incidentals when you land at your destination; some paracord; lighter and a tampon for tinder; map of your destination city and a compass.
  3. Before you board a plane, ensure that you have booked an aisle seat a couple of rows near an exit. Do not sit at an emergency exit. This is the entry point for a hostage rescue assault in the event of a hijacking.
  4. Be aware, have your seatbelt tightened and your footwear on during taxi, take-off and landing. These are the three times that accidents occur and you need to be able to evacuate a damaged plane in 90 seconds or less. 
  5. Show the flight crew that you are aware and be helpful. Flight attendants might call on you in the event of an emergency and always appreciate knowing that competent volunteers are on the flight.
  6. During the flight, periodically get up and walk the length of the plane. You will be able to observe the other passengers and benefit from moving out of your seat.

Whilst travelling by air is deemed to be safe based on the number of flights annually, the reality is that airports and aircraft remain attractive targets for terrorists. Attend one of our courses and learn how to enhance your personal safety and security when travelling.

 

H.E.A.T. tip: Practice the brace position as it has saved passengers’ lives on impact