Under the skin - Ditch testing

A scenario that will eventually be proved but which has been subject of much internal debate is the potential benefit to safe entry that may have been afforded by lower fuselage skin deformation and rupture.

Although not physically tested and certified on a similarity claim with supporting CFD data, it is believed the Airbus A320 carries a recommended water approach pitch attitude of +11°. Where possible, analysis of the grainy Hudson riverside CCTV video suggests the aircraft entered the water at a much lower pitch angle (approximately +6°), which tests may indicate would be likely to result in less favorable ditching characteristics.

(full article: Aerospace Testing International magazine)