What is the primary ditching exit for crewmembers in the relief crew area and cockpit?

The primary ditching exit for crewmembers in the relief crew area and cockpit is the maintenance/ditching hatch. This hatch is strategically designed for emergency exits during a ditching scenario, providing a means for the crew to safely exit the aircraft and access the life rafts or evacuation pathways over water.

The maintenance/ditching hatch is located in a part of the aircraft that is easily accessible for crewmembers during an emergency situation, allowing for a quick and efficient evacuation. Furthermore, its design ensures that it can remain operational under water pressure, facilitating a successful escape in the event of a water landing.

While other options like flotation equipment deployment system (FEDS), horizontal stabilizer access door, and vertical stabilizer access door serve distinct purposes or are not designated as primary exits for ditching, they do not offer the same level of practicality and safety for crew evacuation during a ditching scenario. The primary function of these other options lies outside of immediate crew egress in emergencies, emphasizing the importance of the maintenance/ditching hatch in such critical situations.