The recent discovery of an individual hiding in the landing gear of an Air Algérie plane at Paris-Orly airport has once again highlighted the recurring issue of stowaways in aircraft landing gear. The man, estimated to be between 20 and 30 years old, was found in a state of severe hypothermia and was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention. The Gendarmerie des transports aériens (GTA) has taken charge of the investigation into this shocking discovery, which was made during routine technical inspections of the aircraft after it arrived from Oran.
The attempt to stow away in an aircraft’s landing gear poses extreme risks and dangers, as evidenced by the low survival rate of individuals who have made such attempts over the years. According to statistics from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), between 1947 and 2021, there have been 132 known attempts to stow away in an aircraft’s landing gear, with a staggering 77% mortality rate.
In a separate incident, 25 Indian nationals were recently rescued from a suspicious aircraft at an undisclosed location, suspected of being victims of human trafficking. This incident prompts an investigation into the potential exploitation and mistreatment of individuals attempting to cross international borders.
These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the extreme conditions and risks associated with attempting to stow away in an aircraft’s landing gear. The lack of oxygen and freezing temperatures make survival unlikely, and the chances of being discovered and rescued are often slim.
Moving forward, it is crucial to address the underlying issues that drive individuals to take such desperate measures. By understanding the root causes of these dangerous attempts, efforts can be made to find humane and compassionate solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of those who are most vulnerable. This complex issue requires a concerted effort from governments, international organizations, and civil society to address the systemic factors that drive individuals to such extreme measures.
