We do everything in our power to sit in the front of the plane as business travelers, but those seats might not be the safest. Check out these tips for airline safety, and you just might reconsider those upgrades and warm nuts!
For comfort (and easier boarding/deplaning), up front is the way to go. According to numerous studies, however, the rear of planes is the safest in the event of a crash. Other statistically safe seats include those in exit rows. Flying is still going to be the safest part of your journey, however so don't turn down those upgrades in a panic.
2. Pay Attention
Gone are the days when you can put on your headphones and ignore the strange behavior of those around you. Be aware of other passengers and don't be afraid to report any suspicious activity to a flight attendant. (Be discreet and courteous, if possible.)3. Follow the Rules
Business travelers are notorious for thinking they know everything about travel, and like to bend the rules. Refusing to put your laptop in the overhead bin or trying to take that important phone call could result in a clobbering by overzealous passengers. Stay buckled at all times, and adhere to pilot requests about staying seated.4. Read the Safety Information
Yes, we know you are an "expert" flyer, but the safety information for each plane is different. Studies indicate that passengers who survive crashes were more likely to have read the safety cards and identified an exit strategy before departure.5. Check the Overhead Bins
Amateur fliers like to shove everything but the kitchen sink in the overhead bins, so don't leave the safety of your head solely in the hands of a flight attendant - check that the bins around you are secure before takeoff/landing. Be careful what you put up there, and be cautious when opening the bins during flight.6. Fly the Safest Airlines with the Newest Fleets
The FAA says that, "rankings of airlines based on past accident records ...provide no information to consumers seeking to make safety-enhancing comparisons for current or future travel choices," but there are airlines that have better safety records. The About Guide to Air Travel maintains a list of the
world's safest aircraft and airlines.
