The 717 tail one has a slide that can be detached and used for flotation during a ditching. True or false?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on equipment
• D. Only in emergencies

Answer: (B)

The statement regarding the 717 tail slide being detachable and usable for flotation during a ditching situation is false. In aviation safety, the design of emergency slides typically serves the primary purpose of facilitating safe evacuation from the aircraft in emergency evacuation scenarios on land or water. However, the specific features of the 717 do not include a detachable slide from the tail that can be employed for flotation.

The safety equipment onboard may include life vests and life rafts that are specifically designed for use in water emergencies, but the tail slides themselves are not designed to function as flotation devices. The purpose of these slides is for egress rather than for waterborne survival. Understanding this design limitation is essential for comprehending aircraft emergency preparedness protocols.