On Jan 17, 10:07*am, Martin Gregorie
wrote:
On Sat, 17 Jan 2009 14:45:03 +0000, Peter Higgs wrote:
I wonder if this is an Airbus design feature, which could be activated
by the 'Ditch Switch'. Next time I see any of the lads from Chester, I
will ask them just what the Ditch Switch does.

At least one thing it does is to close all vents and drain pipes on the
underside of the plane to keep it afloat as long as possible.

--
martin@ * | Martin Gregorie
gregorie. | Essex, UK
org * * * |

From the USAirways A320 Pilot Handbook...

Ditching PB (Guarded) (PB = push button)
ON: The operating system sends a "close" signal to the outflow valve,
emergency rams air intake, avionics ventilation inlet and extract
valves, pack flow control valves, and forward cargo isolation out
valve (if installed).

Steve (Retired -USAirways)