Passenger Recalls ‘Gaping Hole’ in Alaska Airlines Aircraft After Doorplug Blows Out
A recent incident involving an Alaska Airlines jet has led to serious inspection and concerns for more than 150 planes. Shortly after takeoff, the doorplug of the jet blew out, causing the FAA to temporarily ground the aircraft for further inspection.
While the focus has been on the unusual doorplug blowout, another interesting event took place in connection with the incident. An iPhone reportedly fell an astounding 16,000 feet from the aircraft and survived intact, leaving many people wondering how this was possible.
Experts explained how the phone could have still been operable after such a fall. David Rakestraw, a senior scientist at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, explained that phone manufacturers have been working to make phones stronger and more resistant to falls. Phone cases and screen protectors also play a crucial role in buffering the impact of a fall, he added.
The location where the iPhone landed likely played a significant role in its survival as well. Sean Bates, a resident of Vancouver, Washington, found the iPhone under a bush alongside a road. The phone was still in airplane mode and displayed a baggage receipt for the Alaska Airlines flight.
Rakestraw pointed out that the phone may have experienced a significantly slower momentum due to its location and the air resistance it encountered while falling. He theorized that the phone likely hit branches and foliage as it fell, further absorbing the impact of the fall.
The unique incident involving the iPhone has sparked interest and speculation on social media channels. There have also been discussions as to whether the phone’s survival might be used in advertising campaigns.
The exact model of the phone and the manufacturer of the case are still unknown. However, the incident has certainly piqued the interest of many, and the remarkable survival of the iPhone has become a talking point among many technology enthusiasts.