During a ditching, what is the correct sequence of actions for exiting the aircraft?

• A. Jump out immediately.
• B. Gamble with the raft not inflated.
• C. Rely on personal items.
• D. Put on life jackets, move to the exit with a raft, board the raft, inflate, and follow crew directions.

Answer: (D)

In a ditching, the most important idea is to secure buoyancy and maintain an orderly evacuation with the crew guiding the flow. Start by putting on life jackets so everyone has immediate buoyancy as they reach the exit. This keeps you afloat right away and helps preserve body heat in the cold water. Then move toward the exit with the raft so it’s readily available for boarding, preventing delays or crowding at the doorway. Board the raft and then inflate it—the raft provides a stable, floating platform and makes it safer and easier to stay together as a group. Once everyone is on the raft, follow the crew directions for further instructions and actions.

Jumping out without flotation, risking the raft being unavailable or uninflated, or relying on personal items for safety are not viable in a ditching because they fail to provide the essential buoyancy, order, and coordination needed to survive on the water.