Introduction
The fail safe jet, also known as the dead man’s switch, is a safety mechanism used in planes to prevent accidents in case of pilot incapacitation. This mechanism has been the subject of many movies, including the 1964 movie “Fail-Safe” directed by Sidney Lumet.
The Plot of “Fail-Safe”
The movie “Fail-Safe” is based on the novel of the same name by Eugene Burdick and Harvey Wheeler. The plot revolves around a fictional incident where a group of American bombers carrying nuclear weapons are mistakenly sent to bomb Moscow due to a technical error.
The President of the United States, played by Henry Fonda, and his advisors are faced with the difficult decision of how to stop the bombers before they reach their target. They consider various options, including shooting down the planes, but all of them have serious consequences.
The Fail Safe Mechanism
The fail safe mechanism is designed to prevent accidents in case of pilot incapacitation. It works by detecting if the pilot is unconscious or unable to control the plane, and then activating a pre-programmed flight plan that will take the plane to a safe landing.
The mechanism can be activated by various means, including a timer that detects if the pilot has not made any inputs for a certain period of time, or by sensors that detect if the pilot’s vital signs are abnormal.
The Impact of the Movie
The movie “Fail-Safe” was released during the height of the Cold War and had a significant impact on public opinion. It was seen as a sobering reminder of the dangers of nuclear war and the need for better communication and safeguards to prevent accidents.
The movie was also controversial because of its bleak ending, where the President decides to sacrifice New York City to prevent a full-scale nuclear war with the Soviet Union. This ending was different from the novel, which had a more hopeful conclusion.
The Legacy of “Fail-Safe”
The movie “Fail-Safe” remains a classic of the Cold War era and is still studied in film schools and military academies. It has been cited as an influence on other movies, including the 1983 movie “WarGames” and the 1995 movie “Crimson Tide”.
The fail safe mechanism itself has also evolved over the years, with newer planes incorporating more advanced technology to detect and prevent accidents. However, the basic principle of the mechanism remains the same, and it continues to play a vital role in aviation safety.
Conclusion
The movie “Fail-Safe” is a powerful reminder of the dangers of nuclear war and the importance of safeguards to prevent accidents. It also highlights the role of technology in aviation safety and the need for constant innovation to stay ahead of potential risks.
