Are you aware of evac check list? Also, sometimes its safer to be inside rather than outside. In not saying this was the case now, but I guess they were trying to figure that out at least. I dont see any blame here especially until we see all the facts together.
Its easy to comment now and blame, blame, blame
In most airlines, CC have the choice to start evacuation when situation is catastrophic (fire, smoke, str tural damage). Also, contacting the flight deck after such event is an SOP for many. As I said before pilots can have certain indications, communication with ATC etc and can advise the CC not to use certain exists.
During this procedure, CC still have the option to initiate evac should circumstances deterioriate. And from what I gathered this was the situation here. CC followed SOP contacting FD and started evac when it was clear that everybody needs to get out asap and cannot wait for pilots to decide. Nothing wrong here imo.
Last edited by skytrax; 11th Jul 2013 at 08:19.