The Boeing 777 is a popular wide-body twin-engine jet airliner manufactured by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. This aircraft is known for its reliability, long-range capabilities, and spacious interior. One important feature of the Boeing 777 is the overwing exits, abbreviated as OVWGs. In this article, we will explore what overwing exits are, their purpose, and their significance for passenger safety. So, let’s dive in!
The Importance of Overwing Exits
Overwing exits are secondary emergency exits located on the wings of the Boeing 777. These exits provide an additional means of evacuation in case of an emergency, such as a post-landing fire, a water landing, or when the main doors are blocked or unavailable. OVWGs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members during such situations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations require aircraft to have a minimum number of emergency exits based on passenger capacity. For the Boeing 777, the FAA mandates a minimum of four overwing exits, two on each side of the aircraft. These exits are strategically positioned to provide optimal evacuation routes for passengers, allowing them to quickly evacuate the aircraft in the event of an emergency.
Each overwing exit consists of two components: the exit hatch and the wing slide deployed during an evacuation. The exit hatch is located on the upper surface of the wing and can be opened manually from the inside of the aircraft. Once the hatch is opened, the wing slide deploys automatically, providing a safe pathway for passengers to slide down and onto the ground or a water surface.
The design and construction of overwing exits are carefully regulated to ensure their effectiveness and reliability. These exits undergo rigorous testing and certification to meet the strict safety standards set by aviation authorities. They must be capable of withstanding extreme forces, such as impact and fire, to effectively serve their purpose during an emergency evacuation.
Procedures for Using Overwing Exits
In the event of an emergency evacuation, it is essential for passengers to familiarize themselves with the procedures for using overwing exits. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Stay calm and listen to the instructions from the flight attendants.
2. If directed to use the overwing exits, remove any loose items and ensure they are left on the aircraft.
3. Pull the handle or release the latch to open the exit hatch. Some hatches may require lifting, pushing, or sliding.
4. Once the hatch is open, move quickly but safely to the edge of the wing and sit down on the slide.
5. Use a hand-over-hand grip to descend the slide, keeping feet up to avoid any obstacles on the ground or water.
6. Move away from the aircraft and follow the instructions of the flight attendants or emergency personnel.
It is important to note that overwing exits should only be used if directed by the flight attendants or if it is clear that the main exits cannot be used. Flight attendants are trained to assess the situation and determine the most appropriate evacuation routes for the safety of passengers.
Conclusion
Overwing exits, or OVWGs, are integral to the safety features of the Boeing 777 aircraft. These secondary emergency exits provide an additional means of evacuation in various emergency scenarios. Passengers should familiarize themselves with the procedures for using overwing exits and follow the instructions provided by the flight attendants during an emergency evacuation. The design, construction, and certification of overwing exits ensure their reliability and effectiveness in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members onboard the Boeing 777.
For more information on the safety features and design of the Boeing 777, you can visit the official Boeing website here.
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