How Japan Airlines Crew Led 367 Passengers to Safety from a Burning Plane
A Japan Airlines (JAL) passenger jet collided with a smaller plane on a runway at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo. The JAL crew successfully evacuated all 367 passengers from the burning plane in just 18 minutes, following emergency procedures and ensuring their safety. This article highlights the crew's quick response and adherence to evacuation protocols.
Swift Evacuation Procedure
As soon as the Japan Airlines' Airbus A350 plane stopped on the runway following the collision, the cabin attendants called on passengers to remain calm despite the flames and smoke engulfing the aircraft. The crew performed visual checks of the exterior and identified the safe emergency exits.
Using direct and concise commands, the crew instructed passengers to leave their luggage behind and guided them to the appropriate exits. Passengers later praised the efficient evacuation drill as a significant factor in their survival.
The crew ensured they followed the proper emergency protocol by obtaining permission from the cockpit before opening any emergency exits. However, due to malfunctioning systems, they made the decision to open the rear exit without receiving permission through the public announcement and intercom.
Emergency Training and Timely Evacuation
All cabin attendants receive annual training on evacuation procedures, including scenarios where communication with the cockpit is compromised. In this incident, after ensuring passengers had safely descended the evacuation chutes, the crew completed the evacuation process within 18 minutes of landing.
The Airbus A350, in service since 2015, had never experienced a major accident before this incident. It was certified to evacuate up to 440 passengers within 90 seconds, with only half of the exits accessible. The exact duration of the slide evacuation in this case is yet to be determined, but experts plan to analyze passenger interviews for insights to enhance future evacuation procedures.
Airbus commended the JAL cabin crew for their exemplary evacuation, emphasizing their adherence to proper protocols. JAL officials also acknowledged the passengers' cooperation and orderly behavior during the swift exit, even with a flight at full capacity, including several pre-school children.
Safety Precautions and Commendation
The airline industry has long warned passengers about the risks of collecting carry-on baggage during an emergency evacuation. JAL senior vice president Noriyuki Aoki highlighted that passengers followed instructions to the letter, leaving their belongings behind and contributing to the smooth evacuation process.
Officials from Japan's second-largest airline expressed their appreciation for the crew's adherence to procedures and emphasized the cooperative efforts of both the crew and passengers. The evacuation's efficiency ensured the safety of all on board. External safety experts and authorities will further investigate the incident to enhance future safety measures.
Reporting by Chang-Ran Kim; Additional reporting by Daniel Leussink and Satoshi Sugiyama in Tokyo, and Tim Hepher in Paris; Edited by Alex Richardson
