Explosive Decompression
Explosive decompression is a phrase used to describe a very rare, but incredibly dangerous aviation phenomenon that occurs when the cabin of an aircraft rapidly loses pressure resulting in a dangerous drop in the air pressure. It is most commonly caused by a failure in the aircrafts pressurization system, which keeps the aircrafts pressurized cabin atmosphere comfortable for passengers and crew. Explosive decompression can also happen when a breach in the fuselage is caused by a wide range of possible incidents, such as bird strikes, sabotage, or even something as mundane as a poor baggage loading procedure.
The most terrifying part of explosive decompression is the rapidity with which it can happen. It can occur in a split second and is usually accompanied by a loud bang. Objects inside the aircraft can become projectiles, either due to the force of the pressure drop or to their own movement resulting from the decrease in air pressure. In the worst cases, the rapidity of the pressure drop can cause both physical and mental trauma to passengers and crew.
Explosive decompression is exceptionally rare and is typically a result of a wholly avoidable cause, such as a maintenance issue or a loading procedure that was not somehow up to standard. Even in the cases when the cause of the explosive decompression is not avoidable (such as a bird strike or other high-altitude incident), accidents of this type still remain relatively uncommon.
When an explosive decompression occurs, the pilots of the aircraft are instructed to immediately don their oxygen masks, as a significant drop in the cabins oxygen levels occurs along with the drop in air pressure. The pilots must then ensure that the aircraft descents to an altitude where the passengers and crew can safely take off their oxygen masks. Furthermore, the pilots must be able to adapt to the various airspeed and attitude changes that can often accompany an explosive decompression incident.
The cabin crew is also responsible for ensuring their own safety, as well as that of their passengers. The cabin crew should be prepared to evacuate the cabin at a moments notice and should be familiar with both emergency exits and life vests. The cabin crews primary responsibility is to check the emergency exit windows, which may become jammed in an explosive decompression incident.
The chances of an explosive decompression are incredibly small and the effects of such a rare incident can range from terrifying to injurious. However, it is important to know the proper protocols and to be prepared should an explosive decompression ever occur. Pilots and cabin crews must be thoroughly trained, and proper maintenance and quality control checks must be conducted. Safety and quality measures should always be taken to ensure that such a traumatic incident does not occur.
