Why are there flotation devices under plane seats instead of parachutes?

Answer 1

Do you really think you could jump out of an airplane at 36K feet and live? Or do you really believe you could jump out of a crashing airplane falling to earth and live? Or do yopu really believe that a plane that has mechanically failed bad enough to force a emergancy water landing would have the time and capabaility to help 100 - 300 passengers put on parachutes "correctly", teach everyone how to parachute, depressurize the cabin, open a door and help everyone jump out of a plane into the ocean before the plane crashed?

Answer 2

Because you'd never get it on in time. Most plane crashes happen at takeoff or landing. There are the rare mid-flight crashes, but you still would have the time to get the parachute on with all the screaming, pushing, shoving, etc. Not to mention the intense G-forces and pressure loss.

Answer 3

because if too many people live from a crash the airlines will have to pay continuing medical bills but if you drown they only have to pay your family once in a lump some. Why do you think they tell you in case of a crash put your head down? When your head hits the seat in front of you, your neck will be snapped and you will die instantly.

Answer 4

My guess is that it's because parachutes are time-consuming to pack, take too much room and take too long to put on.

The airlines probably figured out that they would be more likely to get sued if someone's parachute fouled than if there was no chute at all.

Answer 5

I guess the feel that if you fall out during a flight you screwed but at least if you crash in the water you might get away. You know they fly really high, I think you'll freeze or die from lack of oxgen or something like that.

Answer 6

The airlines figured we needed a good laugh before we die ;)

Answer 7

They're cheaper