The Scary Reality of Moving Walkways at the Airport: Traveler Safety Guide

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Traveling through airports can be a hectic experience, with many travelers focused on their luggage and getting to their destination quickly. However, there is a lurking danger that often goes unnoticed – moving walkways. While these mechanical walkways offer convenience, they can also pose a significant risk if not used correctly or if they malfunction. Serious injuries can occur if someone falls on a moving walkway or gets their clothes or body parts caught in the machinery. In some cases, these incidents have resulted in amputations and severe pain. While the number of injuries is relatively low, it’s important to be cautious and stay alert when using moving walkways at the airport.

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The Dangers of Moving Walkways

Moving walkways, also known as travelators, are a common sight in airports. They offer convenience and the promise of getting you to your destination faster. However, it’s important to be cautious when using these mechanical walkways as they can pose risks if not used correctly or if there is a malfunction. In this article, we will explore the potential dangers of moving walkways, provide examples of accidents that have occurred, and discuss the limited data available on walkway-related injuries. Your safety should always come first when traveling, and being aware of the potential dangers of moving walkways is essential.

Injuries on moving walkways

Injuries on moving walkways may be rare, but they are not unheard of. One common cause of injuries is falls, which can happen if you are not paying attention or if the walkway is defective or damaged. Entrapment is another common cause, where clothes or body parts can get caught in the machinery, leading to serious injury. Taking precautions and being aware of these potential dangers is crucial to avoiding accidents on moving walkways. Serious injuries can occur if you are not careful.

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Examples of accidents

There have been unfortunate incidents involving moving walkways that highlight their potential dangers. In 2024, a woman in Shanghai fell through a broken walkway and was trapped for half an hour before being rescued. This incident, although not at an airport, serves as a reminder of how hazardous these walkways can be, especially if you are in a hurry or too tired to notice a defect. In another incident, a pilot filed a lawsuit claiming that a walkway at Denver International Airport caused severe pain after his foot got caught in a moving walkway missing a floor plate. The injuries included bone contusions. A more severe accident occurred in Bangkok in 2023, where a woman’s leg was amputated at the knee after getting caught in a walkway that had a detached plate. These accidents serve as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with moving walkways.

Limited data on walkway-related injuries

There is limited data available specifically on injuries related to moving walkways. However, a study published in the Western Journal of Emergency Medicine in 2013 revealed that approximately 10,000 people visit emergency rooms each year due to escalator accidents, which can have similar underlying factors to accidents on moving walkways. While it is difficult to determine the exact number of injuries caused by moving walkways, these statistics suggest that accidents can and do happen. It is important to exercise caution when using these travelators to minimize the risk of injury.

Considerations When Using Moving Walkways

When using moving walkways, there are several factors to consider to ensure your safety. One consideration is the limited speed increase compared to walking. Research shows that moving walkways only provide a small increase in speed compared to normal walking speed. Typically, airport guests walk at a speed of 3 mph, while moving walkway users move at a speed between 2.24 and 3.66 mph. If speed is a priority for you, relying on your own feet may be a better option, especially if the walkway is crowded.

To maintain walking speed while on a moving walkway, it’s important to follow the advice of aviation expert Seth Young. He suggests maintaining your normal walking speed while on the walkway, rather than slowing down or stopping altogether. This will help you make the most of the small increase in speed provided by the walkway.

Remaining cautious and alert while using walkways is also crucial for your safety. Avoid distractions, such as using your phone or headphones, as they can prevent you from paying attention to your surroundings. Stay focused on the walkway and be aware of the boarding announcements. Watch for potential hazards or defects, such as cracks in the walkway, and notify airport staff if you notice anything out of the ordinary. Your safety is a priority, and being aware of your surroundings can help prevent accidents on moving walkways.

Conclusion: Traveler Safety Comes First

In conclusion, it is important to prioritize traveler safety when using moving walkways. While these walkways offer convenience and the promise of faster travel, they can also pose risks if not used correctly or if there is a malfunction. Falls and entrapment are common causes of injuries on moving walkways, and serious injuries can occur if precautions are not taken. Examples of accidents highlight the potential dangers associated with these walkways.