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A TUI flight attendant has explained that sitting on the exit row on an aeroplane is not just a nice perk that gives you extra legroom, it actually serves a much more important purpose if the flight gets into any difficulty. In fact, if you sit in an exit row, you may end up having to assist the crew if they need an extra pair of hands in an emergency. The cabin crew will speak to you at the end of boarding to check you’re okay with it.

Miva, a member of cabin crew, explained: “An emergency exit seat is not just a seat with extra legroom. In an evacuation, the passenger sitting there may need to assess the situation outside, open the exit, direct other passengers and help the crew.”

Thankfully, it’s extremely rare that you would actually be needed to assist, but you need to be up for it if the cabin crew need you. This is why there is a list of passengers who are not allowed to sit in the exit row, because they would not be able to help during a genuine emergency.

Who cannot sit in an exit row?

Children are not allowed to sit in the exit row. Every airline has a different policy about the minimum age of someone allowed to sit there.

Adults with a baby or child depending on them are also not allowed to sit in the exit row. Anyone with reduced mobility or an injury cannot sit there, nor can anyone who can’t understand the instructions they’re given.

People who are unable to operate the exit cannot sit there, nor can anyone who is uncomfortable or unable to assist in an emergency situation, as this is what these seats are actually for.

Miva said: “The reason is simple: every second counts during an evacuation. The person sitting at the emergency exit must be physically and mentally capable, willing to act immediately and able to help other passengers leave the aircraft safely.

“The cabin crew can move someone to another seat if they believe that person is unsuitable. Exact requirements may differ between airlines”.

In the comments, some were confused, asking: “Then why charge extra to sit there for the extra leg room? Should be giving us money for being willing to help.”

Another said: “Children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, elderly. Because in case of an emergency, you will have to help open/help passengers off, which is also why the floor must be clear at all times.”

Someone else pointed out: “People who need a seatbelt extended can’t sit there either because the extender could trip people on the way out the emergency exit.”