Originally Posted by
jetBlueNYFL
Not only that, but the exits CANNOT be opened once the aircraft is airborne! DeitCoke and jetBlueFA can elaborate on this one, but my basic understanding is that the outside air pressure forces the exits to remain closed when in the air. It's physically/virtually impossible to open them.
Clearly, these exits cannot be used when the aircraft is airborne. Even if you could get out, where would you go if the plane were in the air?
The FAA's rule concerning seat reclining is to ensure that there is no possibility of having the exit row blocked by a reclined seat, whether intentionally by a passenger, or due to a malfunction.