Question 1

Responsibilities of sitting in the emergency exit row.

Accepted Answer

Federal regulations require that a Customer select a non-exit seat if they can't or don't want to perform the following functions:

Locate the emergency exit
Recognize the emergency exit opening mechanism
Understand how to operate the emergency exit
Able to operate the emergency exit
Assess whether opening the emergency exit will increase the hazards to which passengers may be exposed • Follow oral directions and hand signals given by a Crewmember
Stow and secure the emergency exit window so that it will not impede use of the exit
Move quickly through the emergency exit
Assess, select, and follow a safe path away from the emergency exit

Question 2

Emergency exit row seating mobility requirements.

Accepted Answer

In addition, to comply with federal regulations a passenger seated in an exit seat must have sufficient mobility, strength, or flexibility in both arms, hands, and both legs to:

Reach upward, sideways, and downward to the location of the emergency exit
Grasp and push, pull, turn, or otherwise manipulate mechanisms
Push, shove, pull, or otherwise open the emergency exit
Lift out, hold, move on to nearby seats, or maneuver the size and weight of over-wing window doors over seats to the next row
Remove obstructions similar in size and weight to over-wing exit windows
Reach the emergency exit quickly
Maintain balance while removing obstructions
Exit quickly

Question 3

Emergency exit seating qualifications

Accepted Answer

A passenger seated in an exit seat must:

Be 15 years of age or older
Have the capacity to perform the applicable functions without the assistance of an adult companion, parent, or other relative
Read and understand instructions related to emergency evacuation provided by Southwest in printed or graphic form
Understand oral crew commands
Have sufficient visual capacity to perform applicable functions without the assistance of visual aids beyond contact lenses or eyeglasses
Be able to hear and understand instructions shouted by Flight Attendants without assistance beyond a hearing aid
Adequately impart information orally in English to other passengers

Question 4

Emergency exit seating disqualifications

Accepted Answer

A passenger seated in an exit seat must not:

Have preboarded
Use a portable oxygen concentrator
Require a seat belt extension to fasten their seat belt
Have a condition or responsibilities, such as caring for small children or pets, that might prevent them from performing the applicable functions
Have a condition that might cause the person harm if they perform one or more of the applicable functions