A person surviving a 10,000-meter (about 33,000 feet) fall sounds almost impossible, but there have been rare cases and explanations that make it somewhat plausible.Beneficial Factors for SurvivalTerminal Velocity and Air ResistanceWhen falling from great heights, a person eventually reaches terminal velocity, where air resistance balances gravity, and they stop accelerating. For a human body falling in a stable, belly-to-earth position, terminal velocity is about 53 m/s (around 190 km/h or 120 mph). Surviving depends on how and where the fall ends.Landing SurfaceLanding on something that absorbs impact—like deep snow, thick foliage, or soft mud—can drastically reduce the force of the impact, increasing chances of survival.Position During FallSpreading out the body to increase air resistance (like a skydiver’s belly-to-earth position) can reduce speed. Tumbling or spinning might also help reduce impact force by distributing it.Obstructions During FallSometimes, falling through tree branches, roofs, or other obstacles can slow down the fall gradually rather than a sudden stop.Luck and Physical ConditionSurvival also depends on luck, the person's health, and sometimes immediate medical attention after the fall.Famous ExampleVesna Vulović, a Serbian flight attendant, survived a fall from 10,160 meters (33,330 feet) after a plane explosion in 1972. She was trapped by a food cart in the fuselage, which likely helped absorb impact, and the wreckage landed on a snowy, wooded slope.