Fish Tales

Last week I found myself hoping for an emergency at the Taipei Airport.

Okay, maybe just a ‘false alarm’ kind of emergency. But, either way I wanted the situation to require everyone to evacuate the building. And, quickly.

Why?

Because we’d get to use the escape chutes!

I really wanted to peek inside

I’ve never seen anything quite like it.

Rather plain, white steel boxes strategically placed around the airport. Easy to overlook at first.

And, certainly, if the boxes didn’t have “Escape Chute” written on the side you’d assume they contained some sort of… umm, I don’t know. Something. Whatever would fit well in a white box. Use your imagination.

So, can an escape chute really be in a white box? Really?

Yes, apparently they can.

Look at the instructions if you don’t believe me.

Click photo to enlarge instructions

The Tokyo Narita airport knows what they are doing. At least when it comes to making travellers feel comfortable during a layover. There’s a great lounge downstairs below all the gates with comfy chairs, computer desks, clean washrooms, etc.

And, the best part? TV monitors that show live pictures of each gate.

No need to stand around the gate joining in the cattle round-up before boarding while wishing there was an empty chair since the flight is delayed. Just watch the screen in the lounge and head upstairs as the boarding line begins to dwindle.

Most excellent!

Flight is supposed to be boarding... but, I know better.