disembarkment

Disembarkment, also written disembarkation, is the act of leaving a vehicle at a destination after a journey. It applies to passengers and crew and may involve the transfer of cargo. The term derives from dis- (apart) and embark, the opposite of boarding.

In ships and ferries, disembarkation typically occurs when the vessel reaches port. A gangway or ladder provides the route from deck to shore, and personnel coordinate movement to maintain safety and order while immigration and customs formalities are completed. The timing is synchronized with port operations, cargo handling, and immigration checks, and delays can ripple across supply chains.

In aviation, disembarkation or deplaning occurs after landing, usually via a jet bridge or aircraft stairs. Passengers depart in an orderly sequence, then proceed to passport control and baggage claim; the process is governed by safety rules and airline procedures.

In rail service, alighting is the term used for passengers leaving a train at a stop. In spaceflight, disembarkation refers to astronauts departing a vehicle after landing or docking, following standardized procedures and post-landing checks, and coordinating with ground teams.

Terminology and practices vary by transportation mode and jurisdiction. Some systems distinguish disembarkation from deplaning or alighting, reflecting differences in procedures, security requirements, and passenger flow management.