What type of slides can be used as flotation devices during emergencies?

Slides on an aircraft are designed to serve multiple purposes beyond just evacuating passengers in an emergency. In addition to their primary function of facilitating a rapid exit from the aircraft, certain types of emergency slides can be deployed as flotation devices in water landings. This versatility is a crucial safety feature, as it ensures that passengers can remain afloat until rescue operations can retrieve them.

The use of slides as flotation devices is particularly beneficial in scenarios where an aircraft arrives in water, allowing individuals to safely evacuate the aircraft and maintain buoyancy while awaiting assistance. This aspect of emergency slides is a vital part of aircraft safety protocols and training for flight attendants.

Inflatable rafts, while also effective as flotation devices, are not the only option available during emergencies. Therefore, indicating that slides alone can function in this capacity captures an important feature of aircraft design aimed at enhancing passenger safety.