Where are Airplane Emergency Exits Located?
The placement of airplane emergency exits varies depending on the aircraft model. However, they are typically arranged in pairs on both sides of the aircraft cabin. Normally, a plane can have up to 8 emergency exits.
Inside the passenger compartment of a basic airplane, there are 6 emergency exits, divided into 3 pairs arranged at the front, middle, and rear sections near the tail of the airplane. Some airplane models, however, feature up to 8 emergency exits (4 pairs), evenly distributed on both sides of the passenger cabin.

Airplane Emergency Exits on Vietnam Airlines
Airplane emergency exits strictly adhere to safety regulations specifically designed for airplanes. They undergo numerous inspections and considerations, including factors such as aircraft weight, payload, seat count, air pressure, etc., before being put into operation alongside the airplane. Thus, airplane emergency exits are among the most crucial components on an airplane and not everyone can sit in this area or use the exits at will.
In case an airplane emergency exit is damaged, the repair costs can amount to $10,000 USD (approximately more than 230 million VND).
Instances Requiring the Use of Emergency Exits on Aircraft
Emergency exits on aircraft are utilized in specific emergency situations. In such instances, passengers are obliged to adhere to the instructions provided by the flight attendants.
Some Urgent Scenarios Necessitating the Use of Aircraft Emergency Exits for Safe Passenger Evacuation:
- Terrorism Onboard: In reality, there have been instances globally where passengers had to be evacuated from an aircraft due to reports received by aviation authorities and law enforcement agencies regarding bombs onboard.
- Off-Runway Incidents: Specifically, in 2019, it was recorded that an Airbus A320 in Russia had to evacuate over 100 passengers out of a total of 234 when the aircraft collided with birds, causing an engine fire and resulting in the aircraft veering off the runway upon landing.
- Other Cases: Due to security or safety regulations onboard, the flight captain will manage the situation to issue orders to use emergency exits on the aircraft, ensuring the maximum safety of passengers and crew.
How to Use Aircraft Emergency Exits
Instructions on using aircraft emergency exits are detailed in the door area. You need to pull the handle to one side and then lift the lever to the “Open” position and release your hand. However, it's crucial to note, the door should only be opened in emergency situations.

How to operate aircraft emergency exits
Furthermore, passengers need to pay attention to a few things in case of an emergency requiring the use of aircraft emergency exits when flying:
- Important Reminders When Seated Near Airplane Emergency Exits
- Stay away from the emergency exit until the assigned flight attendant opens it safely.
- If the emergency exit is opened while the plane is still airborne, the oxygen inside the aircraft cabin will escape, making it difficult for passengers to breathe. In that case, follow the flight attendants' instructions to put on the oxygen mask.
- If you're wearing high heels, leave them behind or take them off as the heels could puncture the inflatable slide outside the emergency exit.
Who Can Sit in the Aircraft Emergency Exit Area?
For experienced flyers, sitting near the emergency exit row is an advantage, not only for quick evacuation in emergencies but also because the seats near emergency exits are relatively spacious and comfortable compared to others. However, not everyone is eligible to sit near the emergency exit.
Requirements for Seating Near Aircraft Emergency Exits

Passengers must be in good health to sit near the emergency exit.
However, if passengers meet the above conditions but are traveling with young children, elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, or pregnant women, they will also not be seated near the emergency exit.
Additionally, for safety reasons, individuals such as children under 15, pregnant women, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities will not be allowed to sit next to the emergency exit.
Important Considerations When Seated Near Aircraft Emergency Exits
Things to Note When Seated Near Aircraft Emergency Exits:
- Follow the instructions of the flight attendants on the flight under any circumstances.
- Absolutely refrain from opening the emergency exit unnecessarily; otherwise, you may face fines or even a ban from flying.
- Be prepared to assist the cabin crew in emergency situations.
- If you are seated next to the emergency exit, the airline will not serve alcoholic beverages to you.
- Avoid sleeping throughout the flight to be prepared for emergency evacuations.
Make sure to remember the essential information about aircraft emergency exits that Mytour has just shared! It will undoubtedly be helpful for you if you are assigned a seat near the emergency exit on your upcoming flight.
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Thao Chi
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