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The patent was not claiming this was a maintenance issue. They were pointing out that if there were indeed a hidden exit door here that it would still require maintenance, which is why there wasn’t actually a hidden exit door here. Instead it’s a solid panel of some kind.

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Second paragraph as an argument for why it would be a permanent plug installation instead of a hidden door. I see your point.

Do we know about permanent plug vs semi-permanent substitute door? According to some other posts both exist, both levels of permanency exist.

It's not a permanent welded-in plug, rather it's a door-shaped panel that is secured in using the fastenings where the door would be fastened. That's why you can see the outline.

The one thing an airline likes less than carrying extra weight is not being able to change their minds later :) Or rather, for the option to be available for whoever they sell the plane to after they're done with it.

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