We've had a number of examples recently of people evacuating in an emergency with their carry-on.

EK521, DL1086, BA2279 - And, most recently, the American Airlines 767 at ORD.



This article makes an interesting argument that the certifications for rapid aircraft evacuation need to be revised to take into account the fact that people take their luggage with them in an evac -

http://www.airlineratings.com/news/8...ares-to-triple

Aircraft are certified on the basis of all passengers off in 90 seconds with half the exits out of use.

The stark reality is it takes three times longer - and sometimes more - with passengers slowing the process by grabbing bags.

In the evacuation certification tests, the "passengers" are aircraft manufacturer employees who know the drill and they have no baggage.



What do you think? Do you think the current evacuation-time figures and related certifications need to be adjusted to reflect the real-world scenarios of people taking their baggage?

I know you can argue that "FAs should enforce the rules during an emergency evac!" or "people should be fined!" but neither of those speed the evacuation and besides who wants a pile of bags at the emergency exit anyway?

I personally think the test has to presume the scenario of a majority of people at least grabbing the bag under the seat in front of them and taking it with them.