What should be done with the cabin doors during a ditching situation?

During a ditching situation, unlatching the cabin doors is crucial for ensuring a safe escape from the aircraft. When water begins to fill the cabin or if the aircraft is sinking, having the doors unlatched allows for easier and quicker egress. This prepares the pilot and passengers to exit the aircraft without delay, which is vital in an emergency where time is of the essence.

Keeping the doors locked, leaving them as is, or trying to remove them could create additional barriers or delays in an already stressful situation. If the doors are locked or left in their original state, it can be challenging to open them quickly, especially if water pressure increases outside the aircraft. Thus, unlatching them not only makes physical escape possible but also increases the chances of survival in the event of a ditching scenario.