A US pilot has identified one simple factor that likely saved the life of a Ryanair passenger who was nearly sucked through a cabin window after it dislodged mid-flight. American Airlines pilot Captain Steve Scheibner examined footage of the incident and stressed the importance of keeping seat belts fastened at all times.
Incident Details
On July 10, a Serbian man was almost dragged head-first through a cabin window shortly after a Ryanair flight departed Thessaloniki, Greece, bound for Memmingen, Germany. His wife reportedly clutched his ankles to prevent him from being pulled out. Flight tracking data shows the aircraft had been airborne for about 10 minutes before descending around 9,000 feet. Passengers reported hearing "some kind of explosion."
Captain Scheibner, speaking on his YouTube channel Captain Steeeve, analyzed footage showing the blown-out window and the oxygen masks deployed. He said: "Now you can see that the oxygen mask came down. That was the seat that the gentleman was seated in. He had his seat belt fastened, and that saved his life. Friends, how many times have you heard me say, 'Keep your seat belt fastened, regardless of whether the sign is on or off?' You never know when something's going to happen, and it might just save your life."
Passenger Account
Passenger Christina told Radio Thessaloniki: "We immediately realised there had been a decompression. There were screams... for a moment I thought someone had accidentally opened the emergency door. The masks dropped and there was a strong smell. The head and shoulders of one passenger were outside the window. Fortunately, he hadn't taken off his seat belt."
The 61-year-old man was reportedly hanging out of the window up to his shoulders before fellow passengers hauled him back inside. A Greek official confirmed he was treated for friction burns.
Airline Response
Ryanair stated: "The aircraft landed normally and passengers returned to the terminal. One passenger requested and received medical assistance on the ground in Thessaloniki." The airline added that a replacement aircraft was arranged to bring passengers to Memmingen.
Safety Advice
The UK Civil Aviation Authority advises passengers to keep their seatbelts fastened throughout the journey, stating it is non-negotiable during taxiing, take-off, landing, and turbulence.
