Irony of character
Nando Parrado is initially depicted as a weak character, and is described as being "gangling, nearsighted, and somewhat shy". With this description, we might think that Parrado will not survive. However, he undergoes a transformation in the text, and becomes a hero. He not only survives himself, but also helps others to safety.
Irony of questioning faith
The experience of the accident and their subsequent struggle to survive means that many of the characters question their faith. For example, one survivor asks "Why was it that he had lived while others had died? What purpose had God in making this selection." Here, he is questioning the will of God, and why some people survived while others didn't. Although the survivors question their faith during the ordeal, at the end of the novel when they are saved they have a restored faith in God. Surviving through such a frightening experience has made their faith in God stronger.
Irony of suffering
Although the characters have endured extreme suffering during this novel, many of them return from the experience with a new appreciation for life. Although their experiences were traumatic, they resulted in some positive outcomes. For example, many of the characters realize how much they care about their families, and start to appreciate things they took for granted before. Additionally, many of the characters experience a renewal in their faith, and a stronger connection with God.
