Introduction
Recently, a study by the Italian Flight Safety Agency (ANSV) revealed an interesting and concerning fact: passengers using the retractable staircases of Ryanair’s Boeing 737s have a significantly higher risk of falls or accidents compared to other boarding or disembarking methods. These staircases, which open and close directly from the aircraft, are a distinctive feature of Ryanair that helps speed up operations, especially at airports without terminals or at remote stands.
In this article, we will explore the context of this technology, its practical impact on travelers, and provide helpful tips to minimize risks.
Retractable Staircases: Use and Advantages
Retractable staircases represent an integrated boarding system born from the need to optimize boarding and disembarking times by reducing reliance on ground equipment such as mobile jet bridges at airports. Ryanair, one of the largest operators of Boeing 737s equipped with retractable stairs, uses this feature mainly at so-called remote stands, meaning parking spots where the aircraft cannot dock directly at the terminal, or at airports with limited infrastructure.
The concrete advantages of this system are:
- Speed: faster and independent boarding and disembarking.
- Flexibility: operations possible at airports with minimal infrastructure.
- Reduction in airport handling costs.
The ANSV Study and Highlighted Risks
According to data collected by the Italian Flight Safety Agency, the use of retractable staircases has shown an increase in incidents related to falls and injuries during boarding or disembarking. This is due to several factors:
- The structure is often steeper and less stable than a jet bridge.
- Adverse weather conditions (rain, ice) that make the surface slippery.
- Possible crowding and simultaneous movement of many people.
Although Ryanair adopts safety measures and staff training, the technical risk appears higher compared to traditional boarding systems.
Practical Impact for Travelers
For passengers, the presence or absence of retractable staircases is not a direct choice. However, some effects occur during travel:
- Faster boarding times, which may reduce airport stress but also decrease the time available to request special assistance.
- Greater attention needed when getting on or off the plane.
- In case of bad weather or reduced mobility, disembarking can be more difficult.
Airports Most Involved
Ryanair mainly uses these systems at secondary airports or with remote gates, such as those of Rome Fiumicino or London Heathrow, but especially at airports with more limited infrastructure.
Advice for Passengers
If you are traveling with Ryanair or any airline that uses retractable staircases, here are some tips to reduce accident risks:
- Pay attention: focus while boarding or disembarking, avoid distractions like using your phone.
- Wear appropriate shoes: opt for footwear with non-slip soles.
- Ask for assistance: if you have reduced mobility or small children, seek help from the cabin crew.
- Plan your boarding: if possible, board early to avoid crowds.
- Get informed in advance: check the flight details on FlightGuard to know the boarding method expected for your flight.
Conclusions
Retractable staircases are an efficient and useful solution for low-cost aviation, but there are risks that should not be underestimated. Being aware of these dangers and preparing accordingly can improve safety and travel experience.
Ryanair is one of the airlines most affected by this technology, and the airports of Fiumicino and Heathrow often see the use of these staircases on Ryanair flights.
Want to know if your next flight is at risk? Check your flight risk on FlightGuard.
