VERRES-VLTA - Emergency Requirements Research Evacuation Study
Overview
Background & policy context:
This study, funded by the European Commission and undertaken by a European consortium has been able to investigate a wide variety of issues related to the evacuation of Very Large Transport Aircraft (VLTA). Some exploratory evacuation trials have been carried out and areas for future research have been identified.
Objectives:
The purpose of Very Large Transport Aircraft (VLTA) Emergency Requirements Research Evacuation Study (VERRES) is to investigate many issues relating to post-accident survivability of larger aircraft in the future. A particular focus is on evacuation issues with detailed investigation of the role of computer models.
Methodology:
The use of computer models
The value of computer models of evacuation have been assessed as a major part of the study with a particular focus on VLTA. Computer based analysis techniques coupled with partial testing have been shown to assist in the design and development of safer aircraft, particularly significant for the more complex interiors that may be offered in VLTA.
Evacuation trials
VERRES includes results of the first evacuation research trials of a large double-deck aircraft. These were intended to provide data for evacuation models, particularly related to the use of stairs in addition to exploring wider issues of VLTA evacuation. These exploratory trials were able to provide an indication of the many issues involved and provided useful pointers for future, more detailed investigations. It should be noted that a more complex interior allows more crew procedural options and passenger behaviour may be less predictable with implications for crew training.
Share this page