Ep 7. Plane Boarding / Bite the Bullet

In this gripping episode of MythBusters, season 16 takes off with a double feature, tackling two intriguing myths that have left passengers and curious minds scratching their heads for years. In "Plane Boarding," the team sets out to test various boarding strategies and determine the most efficient way to get everyone on an airplane quickly and smoothly. Meanwhile, in "Bite the Bullet," they delve into the long-held belief that biting a bullet can help alleviate pain during medical procedures in the absence of anesthesia. Get ready for a thrilling adventure as the MythBusters team puts these myths to the test with their signature blend of ingenuity and scientific rigor.

The episode kicks off with Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, the dynamic duo at the helm of MythBusters, stepping onto the tarmac and preparing to tackle the age-old problem of airplane boarding. With the help of their team, they set up a full-scale mock airplane interior complete with rows of seats, overhead compartments, and unwieldy carry-on bags. Their goal is to examine different boarding methods, including the traditional back-to-front and the innovative outside-in sequences, in order to determine which approach is the most efficient. Armed with cameras, precise timing devices, and their trademark enthusiasm, they begin their experiments.

As the MythBusters commence testing, they meticulously record the time it takes for passengers to board the plane using each strategy. They analyze factors such as aisle congestion, personal belongings, and even the psychology of individuals as they navigate the complicated process of finding their seats. From the leisurely window seat dwellers to the frantic over-packed passengers, the team observes every aspect of boarding in an effort to provide concrete conclusions and recommendations for the industry.

But the MythBusters' scientific prowess doesn't stop there. In the second part of the episode, they dive headfirst into the contentious myth of biting the bullet to endure pain. Drawing inspiration from historical anecdotes and cinematic representations, they explore the effectiveness of this practice. Donning white lab coats and gathering a suite of medical instruments, Adam and Jamie organize a series of experiments to put the myth under the microscope.

To gather fundamental data, they enlist the help of willing participants who are subjected to various levels of pain, both physical and psychological. These volunteers put on brave faces and undergo intense sensory stimulation while being monitored and questioned by the MythBusters. By analyzing the participants' physiological responses and subjective experiences, the team endeavors to uncover the truth behind the bullet-biting myth.

As the experiments progress, the MythBusters delve deeper into the science behind pain perception and the potential psychological benefits that one might experience by biting on something during moments of distress. They scrutinize factors like distraction, endorphin release, and pain tolerance to determine whether biting a bullet truly has any tangible impact on pain management.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on an exhilarating ride, joining the MythBusters as they uncover captivating insights and surprising results. With their boundless curiosity and unwavering commitment to evidence-based investigation, Adam and Jamie illuminate long-standing myths, debunking or affirming them in their signature awe-inspiring fashion.

From the bustling chaos of aircraft boarding to the mysteries surrounding pain management techniques, this episode of MythBusters Season 16 offers a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of two captivating myths. As always, the MythBusters exemplify the essence of scientific inquiry, demonstrating that curiosity and experimentation can help shed light on even the most puzzling phenomena. Strap in and prepare for an enlightening adventure as they take flight and sink their teeth into age-old beliefs in "Plane Boarding" and "Bite the Bullet."