I know you are really focused on larger airliners but felt a need to comment (as you do on the internet)...
Originally Posted by
justapax
Safety lifejackets have never been known to save a life.
I cannot comment on larger commercial airliners but they sure have saved many people (pilot and crew and pax) in aircraft ditchings of other aircraft.
DC-3 1994 Ditched shortly after Take off from YSSY. 21 pax and 4 crew. All survived. I think one serious injury - flight attendant broke her arm.
Originally Posted by
justapax
Have oxygen masks ever saved a life?
Again cannot comment on larger commercial airliners but having supplemental oxygen has saved many in other types of aircraft.