Plane crashes are a rare but tragic occurrence. In 2022, there were a total of 13 plane crashes worldwide, resulting in 474 fatalities. However, there have also been many cases of plane crashes where some or all of the passengers and crew survived.
One of the most famous cases of plane crash survival is the story of Vesna Vulović. In 1972, Vulović was a flight attendant on a JAT Yugoslav Airlines flight that was blown up by a bomb over Czechoslovakia. The explosion caused the plane to break apart and fall 33,000 feet (10,000 meters) to the ground. Vulović was the only survivor of the crash, and she suffered only a broken leg and a concussion.
Another famous case of plane crash survival is the story of Chesley Sullenberger. In 2009, Sullenberger was the pilot of a US Airways flight that landed safely on the Hudson River after both of its engines were disabled by a flock of geese. All 155 passengers and crew survived the crash.
These are just a few examples of plane crash survival stories. There are many other cases where people have survived plane crashes against all odds. These stories are a testament to the human will to survive, and they offer hope to those who have been affected by plane crashes.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to survival in a plane crash. Some of these factors include:
- The type of plane: Some planes are more likely to survive a crash than others. For example, smaller planes are generally more maneuverable and can land in smaller spaces.
- The location of the crash: Crashes that occur in remote areas are less likely to be fatal than crashes that occur in populated areas. This is because it takes longer for rescue crews to reach remote areas.
- The weather conditions: Crashes that occur in good weather are more likely to be survivable than crashes that occur in bad weather. This is because bad weather can make it difficult for pilots to control the plane and can make it difficult for rescue crews to reach the crash site.
- The actions of the passengers and crew: Passengers and crew members who take quick action to evacuate the plane after a crash are more likely to survive. They should also be aware of the dangers of fire and smoke, and they should try to stay calm and follow the instructions of the flight crew.
If you are ever involved in a plane crash, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of survival:
- Stay calm: Panicking will only make things worse.
- Follow the instructions of the flight crew: They are trained to handle these situations.
- Wear your seatbelt: This will help to keep you from being thrown from the plane during a crash.
- If you can, brace yourself for impact: This will help to protect you from injury.
- After the crash, evacuate the plane as quickly as possible: Be aware of the dangers of fire and smoke, and try to stay calm.
But sometimes, as rare as it is, planes do crash, and even then, it ain’t over till it’s over. Here are some people who survived plane crashes for several days before being found:
- Juliane Koepcke: In 1971, 17-year-old Juliane Koepcke was flying with her mother over the Amazon rainforest when their plane was struck by lightning and she was thrown from the plane, plummeting 2 miles to the ground. She survived with only a broken collarbone and a concussion and spent 11 days alone in the rainforest before being found by loggers.
- Nando Parrado and Roberto Canessa: In 1972, a plane carrying 45 people crashed in the Andes mountains. 16 of the passengers survived the crash, but they were stranded in the mountains for 72 days before being rescued. During that time, they had to eat the flesh of their dead friends and family in order to survive.
- Rupert Carlyon: In 1987, Rupert Carlyon was flying from England to Australia when his plane crashed in the Indian Ocean. He survived the crash and spent 19 days adrift at sea before being rescued by a passing ship.
- Erica Alfaro was a 21-year-old student from Costa Rica who was flying from Costa Rica to Panama on a small plane on February 21, 2009. The plane crashed in the jungle in Panama, and Erica was the only survivor. She spent 10 days alone in the jungle before being found by a search party.
- Erica survived the crash with only minor injuries. She was able to walk to a nearby river, where she drank water and washed her wounds. She also found some fruit to eat. For the next 10 days, she wandered through the jungle, trying to find her way back to civilization. She was bitten by insects, scratched by thorns, and stung by snakes. She was also exposed to the elements, and she had to sleep in the rain.
Despite all of the challenges she faced, Erica never gave up hope. She knew that she had to survive for the sake of her family and friends. She also knew that she had to find a way to get back to civilization.
On the 10th day, Erica was found by a search party. She was taken to a hospital, where she was treated for her injuries. She made a full recovery, and she is now a motivational speaker who shares her story with others.
Erica Alfaro’s story is a testament to the human will to survive. She faced incredible challenges, but she never gave up hope. She is an inspiration to us all, and her story shows us that anything is possible if we never give up.
DIY flight survival kit
Just in case, it is always good to be prepared and have a plan in case of an emergency. Here is a list of reasonable items that you may consider taking with you on a flight that could potentially help you in case of a plane crash:
- Identification and important documents such as passport, driver’s license, and emergency contact information.
- A small first-aid kit containing items such as bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
- A portable phone charger and charging cable to keep your phone charged in case of an emergency.
- A whistle to alert rescuers to your location.
- A flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
- An emergency blanket or space blanket to keep warm in case of cold weather or injuries.
- Water and snacks such as energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit to sustain you until rescue arrives.
- a pair of small scissors with rounded tips or a nail clipper with a file for cutting through seat belts or other obstacles.
- A smoke hood or escape mask to protect against smoke inhalation.
- Comfortable, sturdy shoes that are easy to move around in and can protect your feet in case of debris.
It is important to note that airlines have their own rules and regulations regarding what items are allowed on board, so it is recommended to check with the airline before packing any of these items in your carry-on or checked baggage. Additionally, if you have any concerns or questions about flight safety, it is always best to consult with a licensed aviation professional.
