In The Event Of A Skyjacking You Should

In the Event of a Skyjacking: Your Survival Guide

Air travel, while statistically incredibly safe, carries with it the ever-present, albeit minuscule, risk of a skyjacking. Understanding how to react in such an extreme situation can significantly improve your chances of survival. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential steps to take before, during, and after a skyjacking, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this terrifying scenario. Remember, while the likelihood is low, preparedness is key.

Before the Flight: Proactive Measures

Before even setting foot on the plane, proactive measures can lay the groundwork for a safer journey. These preventative steps aren't about inducing fear, but about fostering a sense of preparedness and minimizing vulnerabilities.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Emergency Procedures:

Before boarding, take a few moments to review the safety briefing card. Pay special attention to the locations of emergency exits, the instructions for using oxygen masks and life vests (should the situation require it), and the emergency procedures outlined by the crew. Knowing where these exits are and how many rows away they are from your seat can prove invaluable in a crisis.

2. Observe Your Surroundings:

While waiting in the gate area or boarding the plane, subtly observe your surroundings. This isn't about profiling individuals, but about being aware of unusual behavior or anything that might seem out of place. Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, report it to airport security or a flight attendant immediately.

3. Inform a Trusted Contact:

Inform a trusted friend or family member of your flight details, including the flight number and estimated arrival time. Regularly updating them about your arrival can offer an additional layer of security, and if you experience a delay or unexpected event, they can alert the appropriate authorities.

4. Mental Preparation:

While it's impossible to fully prepare for the psychological shock of a skyjacking, mental preparation can help. Visualize possible scenarios and how you might react. This mental rehearsal can help calm your nerves in a high-stress environment and allow you to think more clearly. Consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation; these can be invaluable tools in managing fear and anxiety.

During the Skyjacking: Prioritizing Safety and Survival

The moment a skyjacking unfolds, your priority shifts to survival. Your actions should be deliberate, calm, and compliant to minimize risks.

1. Remain Calm and Compliant:

The hijackers' primary goal is to maintain control. Panicking or resisting will only escalate the situation and increase the potential for violence. Remain calm, outwardly compliant, and follow their instructions precisely. Remember, your safety is paramount.

2. Observe and Remember:

While complying, subtly observe the hijackers. Pay attention to their physical characteristics (height, build, clothing), their weapons, the number of hijackers, and their communication methods. This information will be critical if you need to assist law enforcement later. Try to discreetly memorize their faces, clothing, and anything distinct about their appearance. This information can be crucial for identifying them to authorities.

3. Memorize Details:

Try to remember as much detail as possible about the hijackers’ demands, their interactions with other passengers, and anything else that might be relevant to the situation. Paying close attention to the details can provide crucial information to investigators. This is a difficult task under duress, but every piece of information can be vital.

4. Maintain Situational Awareness:

Be aware of your surroundings – the location of exits, the movements of the hijackers, and the reactions of other passengers. Try to understand the dynamics of the situation and the potential escape routes available. However, avoid making any sudden movements that could be interpreted as a threat.

5. Secret Communication:

If possible, try to subtly communicate with other passengers. Non-verbal cues, pre-arranged signals, or whispered conversations can help coordinate actions or share crucial information during a critical moment.

6. Protect Yourself:

If violence erupts, protect yourself as best you can. Crouch low to minimize your profile, and if possible, shield yourself behind objects or other people.

After the Skyjacking: Cooperation and Recovery

Even after the skyjacking ends, your role in ensuring a successful resolution continues. Cooperation with authorities is crucial.

1. Cooperate with Authorities:

Once the authorities have secured the plane, cooperate fully with law enforcement and other officials. Provide them with all the information you remember, including the details you’ve observed about the hijackers. Accurate and detailed accounts can significantly aid in their investigation and apprehension of the perpetrators.

2. Provide a Statement:

Be prepared to provide a detailed statement to law enforcement, recounting your experience from the moment the skyjacking began to its resolution. Accurate recall of details is crucial, no matter how insignificant they might seem. Even seemingly minor observations could be a key piece of evidence.

3. Seek Psychological Support:

Experiencing a skyjacking is a traumatic event. Seek professional psychological support to process your emotions and cope with the aftermath. Don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals, support groups, or trusted individuals for assistance in overcoming trauma.

4. Document Your Experience:

Keep a record of your experience, including any physical injuries, emotional trauma, and any financial losses incurred. This documentation can be essential if you seek compensation or legal recourse.

5. Maintain Contact:

Maintain contact with other passengers involved in the skyjacking. Sharing experiences and supporting each other can be a powerful tool in recovery and providing collective support in dealing with the lasting effects of trauma.

Specific Scenarios and Actions

While the overall strategy of remaining calm and compliant remains constant, specific scenarios may require slightly different approaches.

Scenario 1: Hostage Situation: If you find yourself in a hostage situation, remember that the hijackers' priority is control. Any sudden movements or attempts to escape could escalate the situation and endanger everyone on board. Maintain a low profile, avoid eye contact with the hijackers unless necessary, and remain compliant with their demands.

Scenario 2: Imminent Threat of Violence: If violence erupts, protect yourself by crouching low, shielding yourself behind objects, or seeking cover. Try to remember where you are and use that information if you need to provide information to authorities.

Scenario 3: Opportunity for Escape: If an opportunity for escape presents itself, carefully assess the risks and benefits. If the risk of escaping outweighs the risk of remaining in the plane, then remain calm and compliant. Assess the situation. Is there a safer place you can move to?

The Importance of Preparedness

While the possibility of a skyjacking is statistically rare, the potential consequences are severe. The principles outlined above emphasize the crucial role of preparedness. By understanding the potential risks, familiarizing yourself with emergency procedures, and knowing how to react calmly and effectively, you significantly increase your chances of survival and aid in the resolution of such a crisis. Remembering these steps – before, during, and after – is vital in ensuring your safety and the safety of others. Your proactive preparation can turn a terrifying situation into a manageable one, maximizing your chances of survival and swift resolution. Remember, staying calm and following these guidelines is crucial. Your awareness and proactive approach are your best tools in a skyjacking event.