When are escape slides disarmed on an aircraft?

Escape slides on an aircraft are designed to deploy automatically in the event of an emergency evacuation, and their safe disarming is a critical procedure that must be correctly timed to ensure passenger and crew safety. The correct timing for disarming escape slides is specifically after the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the Captain gives the command.

This protocol is essential because it ensures that the aircraft is stable and no immediate danger is present outside before the slides are disarmed. If the slides were to be disarmed prematurely, such as upon landing or immediately after the doors are opened, it could lead to safety risks during evacuation or if there is an unexpected need to use the slides. The Captain's command signifies that it is safe to proceed with disarming, emphasizing the importance of following proper procedures for aircraft safety management.

In contrast, disarming the slides at other times could jeopardize the safety protocols established for aviation emergencies, underscoring why the specified timing linked to the Captain's command is crucial.