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Explained in plain English

How are plane windows made?

Aircraft windows are complex, multi-layered structures designed to withstand extreme pressure differences and temperatures. They typically consist of several panes of acrylic, with a small vent hole in the middle pane to balance pressure. The Ryanair incident highlights how a failure in this critical component can have serious consequences, even if rare.

Stories that explain this

Ryanair flight turned back after passenger was partly pulled through broken window

Related explainers

Who checks plane safety? What is cabin pressure? What happens in an emergency? Why do plane windows break? Are all parts made locally? Are all planes built in the US? Do all planes have US parts? How are arrests made?

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