An emergency exit seat is a seat located next to an emergency exit on the aircraft.

These seats often offer extra legroom, but they also come with additional responsibility.

What does it mean to sit in an exit row?

Passengers seated in an emergency exit row may be asked to:

• Assist the cabin crew in an emergency
• Help open the exit door if needed
• Follow and understand safety instructions

Because of this, not all passengers can sit in these seats.

Who can sit in an exit row?

In general, you must:

• Be an adult
• Be physically able to assist in an emergency
• Be able to understand and follow instructions from the crew

Airlines may also have additional requirements depending on their policies and local regulations.

Who cannot sit in an exit row?

You may not be able to sit in an exit row if you:

• Are travelling with an infant or need to assist another passenger
• Have a condition that could affect mobility or response in an emergency
• Are unable to understand the crew’s instructions

Rules can vary between airlines, so it’s important to check their specific requirements.

Important to know

• Exit row seating comes with safety responsibilities, not just extra space
• Airlines will check if you meet the requirements before departure
• If you do not meet the requirements, you may be moved to another seat
• In most cases, this change is made without a refund

Need help?

If you have questions about seat selection or eligibility, you should contact the airline operating your flight.