On Tue, 16 Nov 2004 12:46:10 GMT, "mark" wrote:

And seatbelts on airplanes always seemed kind of
ridiculous.

At first glance, and with respect to high angle ground impacts you are probably
right that a seat belt isn't going to make a lot of difference.

But, airplanes are much more affected by air currents than are automobiles. When
the aircraft suddenly and unexpectedly encounters a several hundred foot per
minute downdraft, you'll be glad the seatbelt is cinched down good and tight.
Especially if you happen to be the pilot and are holding the control yoke when
the overhead whacks you on the top of the head. I won't start the engine until
all aboard are well belted in.

Tom Veatch
Wichita, KS USA