If you have a critical failure (such as losing a wing or major control surface), you may have more time starting from high altitude, but you're still probably doomed.
At least in this case your trajectory is already about parallel to the surface. Unless you suddenly nose straight in, you have a decent chance of survival - especially if you can glide it in like some of the successful emergency water landings of traditional planes.
At least in this case your trajectory is already about parallel to the surface. Unless you suddenly nose straight in, you have a decent chance of survival - especially if you can glide it in like some of the successful emergency water landings of traditional planes.