Buzz
Smaller aircrafts, like the Cessna featured in How Airplanes Work, are equipped with locks on their doors and ignition keys to start the engine. These systems function much like those found in cars. The need for locks and keys stems from the fact that these planes often remain in unsecured parking areas for long durations, sometimes weeks, requiring the same level of protection as a parked car.
Commercial jets, in contrast, lack locks on their doors and do not use ignition keys. It’s possible to board the plane, flip a few switches, and start it up without any key involved!
The absence of ignition keys in jumbo jets can be compared to not locking a car that’s parked inside a locked garage. In both cases, security is ensured by the surrounding environment. Airports maintain excellent security measures, and planes are kept in hangars or securely attached to jetways that are continuously monitored. Moreover, should someone manage to break into a jet and start it, the likelihood of being caught or shot down is practically guaranteed, offering a significant deterrent.
Despite the high level of security, there have been instances where jets were stolen. Take a look at the links below for more details.
These resources will provide you with more information:
- Understanding How Airplanes Operate
- The Inner Workings of Airports
- How Lock Picking Functions
- Exploring How Automobile Ignition Systems Operate
