Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Did you know recent research shows that while 80% of air travelers surveyed claimed to know what to do in an emergency evacuation, only 61% correctly answered that they should leave all personal items and exit the aircraft?
Taking baggage during an evacuation can slow movement through the cabin, block aisles and exits, prevent passengers from using their hands, and injure others. Bags can also puncture evacuation slides, obscure exit path lighting, become caught on seats or fixtures, and create hazards for crew and rescue personnel outside the aircraft.
Rachel Loudermilk, Managing Director Inflight Safety & Base Operations, Southwest Airlines, discusses the growing issue of passengers slowing down evacuations by taking cabin baggage with them.
This interview was filmed during the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting & World Air Transport Summit 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Did you know recent research shows that while 80% of air travelers surveyed claimed to know what to do in an emergency evacuation, only 61% correctly answered that they should leave all personal items and exit the aircraft?
Taking baggage during an evacuation can slow movement through the cabin, block aisles and exits, prevent passengers from using their hands, and injure others. Bags can also puncture evacuation slides, obscure exit path lighting, become caught on seats or fixtures, and create hazards for crew and rescue personnel outside the aircraft.
Rachel Loudermilk, Managing Director Inflight Safety & Base Operations, Southwest Airlines, discusses the growing issue of passengers slowing down evacuations by taking cabin baggage with them.
This interview was filmed during the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting & World Air Transport Summit 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
