If you’ve ever wondered what those small triangles above airplane windows are, we’ve got you covered

Dr Vandana Singh, director of global corporate key account management at Saudia Cargo, sheds light on these intriguing features and other safety aspects of aircraft design.

The purpose of the triangles

According to Dr Singh, “The small triangles above aeroplane windows are known as ‘passenger service unit locators’ or ’emergency reference markers.'” But what exactly do they do? “These markers are strategically placed to indicate to the flight crew the windows that provide the clearest view of the aircraft’s wings,” she explains.

“These markers are placed above specific windows that align with critical visual vantage points of the wings and engines.” The location isn’t arbitrary; it’s carefully determined to maximise their effectiveness. “The location is carefully chosen to provide the best view of essential components like the flaps, ailerons, and engines,” she notes.

This strategic placement serves a vital purpose. Dr Singh elaborates, “Not all windows are marked, as only a few offer an optimal view of these critical areas, making these specific windows ideal for safety checks and monitoring. ” This thoughtful design ensures that flight attendants can quickly and accurately monitor the condition of crucial aircraft parts when needed. This is particularly useful during inspections or emergencies, such as checking for ice accumulation or damage to the wing or verifying the position of the flaps and ailerons.

These markers can make a significant difference in critical situations. “In an emergency, crew members can quickly locate these windows and assess the situation outside, allowing them to take appropriate action or make informed decisions about the safety of the aircraft,” she adds.

The importance of these small triangles becomes even more apparent in emergencies. (File)

Contribution to aircraft safety

Dr Singh mentions, “In the event of an emergency, such as an engine malfunction, wing icing, or damage to control surfaces, the flight crew needs to assess the condition of the aircraft’s exterior quickly.”

These markers play a crucial role in such scenarios. “The triangles enable the crew to rapidly locate the best windows for visual inspection, thereby providing crucial information to the pilots or emergency response team,” she explains. This quick access to a clear view can have significant implications. “This can significantly improve decision-making in emergencies, enhancing the overall safety of the aircraft and its passengers,” Dr Singh adds.

Other safety features in aircraft design

While the window triangles are an interesting safety feature, they’re just one of many elements designed to ensure passenger safety and comfort. Dr Singh highlights several other common features in aircraft design:

Seatbelt Signs and Oxygen Masks: Visible seatbelt signs ensure passengers are securely fastened during turbulence. Oxygen masks deploy automatically if cabin pressure drops, providing essential oxygen to passengers.

Emergency Exit Lighting and Markings: Illuminated paths along the aisle and marked exit signs guide passengers to emergency exits in low visibility conditions

Reinforced Cockpit Doors: To prevent unauthorised access, cockpit doors are fortified and locked, enhancing security and protecting the flight crew.

Winglets: The upward-pointing extensions on the tips of wings improve fuel efficiency and stability, reducing turbulence and making the flight smoother.

Noise-Reducing Cabin Materials: Advanced materials and design techniques reduce noise levels inside the cabin, providing a more comfortable environment for passengers.

Pressurised Cabins: Maintained at a comfortable pressure and humidity level, cabins are designed to ensure passenger comfort and safety at high altitudes.

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