The video clearly demonstrates why a full evacuation is problematic once already on stand. Only two slides appears to be in use and not too many of the 250 odd pax seem to have come down them. What would be the reasons? well here are a few.
The doors are already disarmed and the CC have probably already moved away from some of them.
The pax are already standing in the aisles and getting their hand baggage down. Those that were sitting adjacent to emergency exits probably aren't there anymore.
The CC might have trouble seeing past and getting past standing passengers to perform their drill properly.
Many exits would already be blocked by ground equipment and or other hazards.
This is a very complex scenario and one that would be very difficult to fully comprehend in the time available. A full evacuation is probably only the best option if the event occurs very soon after pulling on to stand and before the a/c is surrounded by ground equipment. The rapid disembarkation drill was developed for exactly this type of eventuality.
Having said that the arguments put forward by Ranger One are very valid.
Any situation like this needs evaluating rapidly but carefully. The blanket idea of evacuate regardless of the circumstances is foolish and a derogation of responsibility. We are paid to use our brains and our judgement not just do the easy thing.
Last edited by tightcircuit; 7th Nov 2013 at 08:12.