Originally Posted by
Magplug
The only way to stop passengers evacuating with their carry-on baggage is to make them check it in. The majority of airlines now offer 'Hand-baggage only' fares so the consumer thinks he can get a better deal by carrying a smaller suitcase onboard. This behaviour is completely driven by commercial considerations and is patently to the detriment of Flight Safety.
Another potential hindrance to an evacuation may occur when family members are sat in separate parts of the cabin. Dad sitting in an aisle seat in row 3 isn't going to move forward to the exit and get put of the way. Pound to a penny he will try to go back to row 8 to usher wife and kids out. An airline policy which requires folks to pay to ensure they can sit together will one day bite someone on the @rse...