Free seating and exit rows.
On a recent flight as we all stood to disembark I was surprised to see that the two elderly ladies across the aisle, also in one of the over wing exit rows, both had walking sticks in hand.
Although obvioulsy no problem was caused on this flight I could not help thinking that this was less than ideal.
I can only guess that with our delayed departure and consequent even greater rush amongst us pax to get on that this had been missed. Perhaps it had been spotted and the crew were satisfied that my fellow passengers were fit and able although I am sure they were seated after me and I can't recall seeing a hold up or discussion in the aisle as they sat down.
Before anyone asks I did not mention it to the crew, it was after the fact and to be honest I did not want to act the self appointed safety inspector - to save you the profile check i'm just a passenger.
However it set me wondering whether generally there is there a case for formally allocating exit row seats even on Low Cost Carriers - if for no other reason than that it might prevent delays as people are reseated when any issues are spotted. Nothing fancy, first XX passengers who fit the criteria get offered an exit seat and a preboard card or something - another incentive to check in early?