Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-92/27

Title and Subtitle: Effects of Seating Configuration and Number of Type III Exits on Emergency Aircraft Evacuation

Report Date: August 1992

Authors: McLean, G.A., Chittum, C.B., Funkhouser, G.E., Fairlie, G.W. and Folk, E.W.

Abstract:
Introduction. An increase in the required pathway width from aircraft center aisles to Type III overwing exits is being weighed by the FAA. To augment the analysis, an examination of seat/exit configuration effects on simulated emergency egress was conducted in the CAMI Evacuation Research Facility.

Methods. Four subject groups traversed four different seat/exit configurations in a counter-balanced, repeated-measures design. Pathway width was modified by altering seat pitch.

Results. In single-exit trials the fastest times and highest flow-rates occurred with a 20" pathway between triple seats or a 10" pathway between double seats. Double exits produced 36% shorter egress times (p<.007), although flow-rates declined 11% and exit plug removal times increased 32%, compared to single exits.

Conclusion. Efficient egress requires optimization of the space around the exit. Generally, wider pathways and fewer obstructions enhance this process; however; when available space exceeds individual passenger needs, conflicts may be produced which inhibit egress.

Key Words: Emergency Evacuations, Type III Exits, Seat Pitch, Egress

No. of Pages: 13