Big differences in commercial, military planes

Staff Writer
The Fayetteville Observer
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Q: I just watched a program called “Why Planes Crash.” Why can’t parachutes be installed on planes for passengers to use when the plane is in distress? — J.L., Hope Mills

A: Commercial jets ferry significantly more passengers on a daily basis compared to fighter jets and military aircraft. Jumping out of the plane is basically the only way to survive in the military aircraft.

According to the website Science ABC, there are a number of reasons for this:

• The lack of parachute training of passengers.

• The non-conducive design of commercial planes.

• The spike in cost.

Also, Science ABC said, planned skydives occur no more than 15,000 to 16,000 feet above the ground. Most commercial airplanes cruise at about 35,000 feet, an altitude where you won’t find any breathable air. And, the commercial planes fly much faster than the smaller ones.

Michael Futch

Q: If a senior citizen needs a ride for a medical appointment, like a colonoscopy, ambulatory surgical procedure, etc., can you provide me with a contact person to call for transportation? — M.C., Fayetteville

A: Call Cumberland County's Community Transportation Program to schedule a ride at least a day in advance. The telephone number is 678-7619.

Amanda Dolasinski


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