How come if a window is smashed out on an airplane it will cause a disaster but other planes can open doors with no problem.

Question

Was on a flight the other day and remembered as a kid being worried the window would break and everyone would get thrown out of the plane, but went sky diving and half the plane was open with no issue. What’s the difference?

In: Physics

Answer 1

Altitude

You’re talking a difference of 4-5 miles (skydiving typically occurs around 10k-13k ft, airline flying @ 37k). Humans top out at breathable air pressure in the 12-14k area I believe, depending on constitution. The air further up is MUCH thinner, enough to create a tumultuous vacuum, let alone be breathable.