How to Survive a Plane Crash: 10 Life-Saving Tips Airlines Don’t Tell You
How do you survive a plane crash?
While commercial air travel is statistically one of the safest forms of transportation, accidents—though rare—do happen. Knowing how to react in the critical seconds before, during, and after an incident can mean the difference between life and death. Here’s exactly what you need to know if you ever find yourself in a worst-case scenario at 35,000 feet.
How to Survive a Plane Crash: 10 Life-Saving Tips Airlines Don’t Tell You
Bottom Line: Survival often comes down to preparation and quick action. By staying aware, thinking ahead, and acting decisively, you can drastically improve your odds in the event of a commercial airplane accident.
1. Choose Your Seat Wisely
Studies from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) show that passengers sitting within five rows of an exit have the highest survival rates. Seats in the rear third of the aircraft often fare better in survivability statistics, though the safest seat ultimately depends on the type of accident.
2. Wear Practical Clothing
Your outfit can be a survival tool. Opt for long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes made of natural fibers like cotton or wool. Synthetic fabrics can melt onto skin during a fire. Sturdy shoes make it easier to run, climb, or navigate debris.
3. Count the Rows to the Nearest Exit
Before takeoff, locate your nearest exit and count the rows between your seat and the exit door—both forward and backward. In a smoke-filled cabin, visibility can drop to zero, and this mental map will help you escape quickly.
If You Do Any of These 7 Things in a Plane Crash, You’re Doomed
4. Master the Brace Position
In an impact, proper body positioning greatly reduces injury risk:
Forward-facing seats: Bend forward, place your head on or near your knees, and keep your hands over your head.
Bulkhead seats: Cross arms on the seat in front of you and rest your forehead on your arms.
Keep feet flat on the floor and tighten your seatbelt low and snug across your hips.
5. Listen to the Safety Briefing—Every Time
It’s tempting to tune out, but every aircraft model is slightly different. The safety briefing may contain crucial details like unique exit mechanisms or life vest locations.
6. Keep Your Seatbelt On
Many in-flight injuries occur during unexpected turbulence. Keep your seatbelt fastened loosely at all times, tightening it during turbulence or unusual aircraft maneuvers.
If You Do Any of These 7 Things in a Plane Crash, You’re Doomed
7. Act Fast—You Have 90 Seconds
In survivable crashes, most fatalities occur when passengers are unable to evacuate within 90 seconds due to smoke, fire, or structural collapse. Don’t grab carry-ons. Get out and move away from the aircraft as quickly as possible.
8. Follow Crew Instructions, but Think for Yourself
Flight attendants are trained for emergencies, but if an exit is blocked or unsafe, take initiative to find another way out. Trust your instincts if seconds count.
9. Protect Against Smoke Inhalation
Most post-crash fatalities are caused by toxic smoke, not the initial impact. If smoke fills the cabin:
Stay low to the ground.
Use a damp cloth or clothing to cover your nose and mouth.
Move toward an exit without hesitation.
10. Move Upwind Once Outside
Once clear of the wreckage, get at least 500 feet away, preferably upwind, to avoid smoke and potential explosions. Assist others if it’s safe to do so.
If You Do Any of These 7 Things in a Plane Crash, You’re Doomed