NTSB Issues Safety Recommendation to FAA Regarding Passenger Exit Procedures

The National Transportation Safety Board, identified by reference number DCA17FA021, has issued Safety Recommendation A-18-007 addressed to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive urges the agency to develop and issue comprehensive guidance for all air carriers that conduct passenger-carrying operations under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121. The recommendation specifically calls for two key actions within recurrent flight attendant training programs. First, carriers must discuss relevant accidents to emphasize the critical importance of effectively assessing door and overwing exits during unusual or emergency situations. Second, the guidance must provide techniques for identifying conditions that would preclude opening exits, including scenarios involving an operating engine. This recommendation aims to enhance safety protocols by ensuring flight attendants are better prepared to evaluate exit usability in complex emergency environments.