Flying can be an adventure, but like everything else in life, there are small risks. Even though flying is the safest way to travel in this modern age, here are some tips to minimize any unfortunate, but unlikely event of an emergency situation.

? Try to only fly nonstop routings

Takeoff, climb, descent, and landing phases of flights have the most occurrences of accidents. To reduce these risks reduce the amount of exposure to these phases of flight by trying only to fly nonstop.

? Choose a larger aircraft

Aircraft under 30 passengers are not required to be designed and certified under strictest regulations. Also statistically, in a larger aircraft, you have a better chance of survival in an unlikely event of a serious accident.

? Pay Attention to the locations of the emergency exits

Preflight instructions have become very repetitious. But the information given regarding the exits are very important to your safety. Pay attention, the locations of the closest emergency exits may be different depending on the aircraft and seat you are in.

? Overhead Storage Bins should be free of heavy articles

Overhead storage bins and their doors are not made to hold very heavy objects during turbulence, so ask if you or another passenger have heavy articles to be stored elsewhere.

? Keep your seat belt fastened while the plane is in the air.

Incase of unexpected turbulence, extra protection is provided by keeping your seat belt fastened.

? Listen to the Flight Attendants

Even though you have flown many times, flight attendants are aware of things that you may not be aware of. If an attendant ask you to do something don't argue just comply. Laws are changing because of the 911 and not complying might end you arrested.

? Don't bring any unauthorized material

Unauthorized materials that are not allowed are a list that seems to grow daily. Common sense should tell you that you shouldn't bring hazardous materials on the aircraft unless they were allowed by the airline and shipped in a proper container. Other items such as sharp objects like knives and other seemingly benign objects have been targeted. Use common sense.

? Don't Drink Too Much

The atmosphere in the cabin is pressurized to about the same as Denver altitude. The alcohol you consume will have a more strongly effect than at lower level. Air Rage

? Keep Your Wits About You

An emergency situation is very unlikely, but incases of an emergency evacuation, follow the flight attendants directions. The reason the attendants are there is not just to serve peanuts and beverages. They are required by law with your safety in mind.

Richard Amburn http://www.topgun-flightschools.com