The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a safety campaign titled “Save a Life, Not a Bag,” calling on passengers not to take their carry-on baggage with them during emergency evacuations from aircraft.
The campaign responds to a recent increase in passengers who, during emergency evacuations, attempt to retrieve their baggage or take photos and videos. The initiative is supported by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
In a survey conducted by IATA among recent air travelers in four markets— the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Singapore—80% of respondents said they knew the correct behavior in an emergency evacuation. However, only 61% actually gave the correct answer of “leaving all baggage behind when evacuating.” One in ten admitted they might disregard instructions and take baggage with them, and only 18% of passengers knew that aircraft evacuation procedures are based on a 90-second safety standard.
Retrieving baggage from the overhead storage bins can cost valuable seconds and may damage the evacuation slides. Evacuating while carrying baggage can block aisles and exits, hinder other passengers from escaping, and increase the risk of passengers tripping or blocking the illumination at exits.
The campaign recommends that passengers secure essential items such as passports, cash, and medication within easy reach before takeoff and landing. Its core messages to passengers are fivefold: “Follow the cabin crew’s instructions,” “Leave all baggage behind,” “Do not film or take photos,” “Keep moving without stopping,” and “Evacuate quickly.” IATA has also released digital materials that airlines and other industry stakeholders can use in their communications with passengers.
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