What happens if a plane goes underwater?

If a plane lands on water, cabin air valves which are underwater can be closed by the pilot with a switch in the cockpit, otherwise, they would let in water. If the plane fills with water, passengers who inflate their vests will be unable to get out of the doors as they will float to the top of the plane.

Can a passenger plane land on water?

Landings on water are rare. In January 2009, an Airbus A320 passenger jet made an emergency landing on the Hudson River in New York shortly after takeoff, after flying into a flock of geese, severely damaging both engines.

What happens when an aircraft breaks apart and sinks?

When an aircraft breaks apart and rapidly sinks, depending on the depth of the water, the sections of the fuselage may not be recovered. However, recovery equipment or divers will likely be sent to find the wreckage to examine it for fatalities and collect evidence for the investigation if needed. Do all aircraft need to be saved?

Is it possible for an airplane to sink in water?

It would then be possible for the aircraft to sink in more-or-less one piece without creating a large amount of floating debris. Hitting water at speed is a lot like hitting concrete (try experimenting with different positions hitting the water off a high diving board—some will hurt).

Is it possible to land a plane on water?

Generally, yes, it is possible to land an aircraft on water intact. But the aircraft has to help you with that. If the engines are not below the wings (turboprop, piston, jet at the rear fuselage), and the pilot flares to minimum speed right above the water, gear up,…

What would happen if an airplane hit the water?

If an aircraft were to hit the water at high speed, the relatively flimsy structures of the aircraft would shatter, disintegrate, and completely lose structural integrity. My answer is: It depends. As always.