Why You Should Know About The Yellow Hooks On Airplane Wings

Monday, July 8, 2024

When flying, you might have noticed small yellow hooks attached to the top of the wings if you’re seated nearby and looking out the window. These seemingly insignificant attachments play a crucial role in aviation safety, especially during emergencies.

In an emergency, the primary safety features that come to mind are seat belts, oxygen masks, and life vests. However, the yellow hooks on the wings serve a vital function. Over-wing emergency exits are a standard feature on commercial airliners, allowing passengers to exit the plane onto the wing. These exits are often smaller than other emergency exits, and the passenger sitting next to the over-wing exit is responsible for opening it in an emergency. If you are seated in one of these rows, a cabin crew member will typically ask if you are willing to operate the exit if needed.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that aircraft be designed for a complete passenger evacuation within 90 seconds using only half of the available exits. This requirement ensures that in the event of an emergency, passengers can quickly and safely exit the aircraft. The standard, first established in March 1965, initially allowed 120 minutes for evacuation using half of the exits but was later revised to the current 90-second requirement.

Depending on the situation, you might not need to use the over-wing exits and could instead use the main exits at the front and rear of the plane. On large aircraft like the Boeing 777, the over-wing exits are similar in size to the front and rear doors. On smaller planes like the Airbus A320, the over-wing exits are more like hatches that must be opened by the passenger seated next to them. A rope attached to the yellow hooks on the wings helps guide passengers during evacuation.

In the event of a water landing, the wings can become wet and slippery. The rope attached to the yellow hooks helps passengers navigate safely to life rafts. Additionally, the rope is used to tether the life raft to the plane, making it easier for people to board.

A notable example of the importance of these safety features is US Airways Flight 1549. On January 15, 2009, the Airbus A320 struck a flock of geese shortly after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport, causing both engines to lose power. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles safely landed the plane on the Hudson River. Passengers exited onto the wings and were guided to safety using the ropes attached to the yellow hooks.

These yellow hooks, while often overlooked, are a critical component of aviation safety, ensuring that passengers have a reliable means of evacuation in emergencies.

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