Airline Evacuation Procedures

The likelihood of an emergency evacuation of an aircraft is small, but learning the best ways to manage an emergency is a reassuring step. While there are some rules and procedures common to all passenger aircraft, a few evacuation regulations may vary from one plane to another depending on the size of the plane and the kind of evacuation equipment provided by the airline.

Listen to Instructions

• The attendant's speech at the beginning of a flight tends to be repetitious and easy to ignore; however, experts advise all passengers to pay attention even if the recital is boring. In addition, the same experts advise removing the safety procedure card from the seat pocket and following along as instructions are given. If any procedure seems unclear, ask questions now while there is time. Knowing if the plane is equipped with slides and flotation gear may be especially important.

Find the Nearest Exit

• Look around for the nearest exit. Memorize its location and count the rows of seats between the exit and your location. If the seat you occupy is an exit seat, read and understand the directions for preparing the exit should an emergency occur, or decline to sit in the exit seat when asked.

Keep Belongings Stowed Safely

• Airline safety regulations say all carry-on baggage must be stored in the overhead bins or kept under the seat in front of you. Keep the space between seats free of obstacles that might slow or prevent a passenger's exit. Consider the people in nearby seats and recognize those who may need additional assistance to walk or crawl to an exit.

Stay Low

• When moving toward the exit, authorities advise passengers to stay as low as possible to avoid smoke. The paths to exits are often equipped with emergency lighting in strips to provide guidance even in conditions of poor visibility. Upon reaching the door, step out onto emergency stairs or onto a wing. In case there is a chute, jump and slide feet-first very quickly.