EASA SIB 2013-06: Evacuation of Infants

What to do

Operators should review and update their Operations Manuals to include the recommended infant evacuation methods described in EASA SIB No: 2013-06. Crew training programs, pre-evacuation safety briefings, passenger safety cards, and educational materials should incorporate this guidance to raise awareness. There is no mandatory compliance deadline as the recommendations are advisory only.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2013-06 titled 'Evacuation of Infants' provides guidance on the recommended methods for evacuating infants and small children from aircraft equipped with inflatable slides and hatch-type over wing exits. It references FAA studies and advisory circulars on emergency evacuations involving infants, focusing on techniques to minimize delays and ensure safety during evacuation. The bulletin applies broadly to all aircraft with such evacuation equipment and aims to raise awareness among crew, operators, and national aviation authorities.

What changed

This bulletin introduces non-mandatory recommendations based on FAA research regarding the safest and fastest ways to evacuate infants using inflatable escape slides and Type III over wing exits. It clarifies that mandating a single evacuation method is not viable due to psychological and practical considerations of parents or guardians. Instead, it emphasizes recommended carrying positions and evacuation techniques to optimize safety and speed.

Why it matters

The guidance is important for aviation professionals as it addresses a critical safety aspect involving vulnerable passengers—infants and small children—during emergency evacuations. Operators and crew can improve evacuation efficiency and reduce confusion by adopting these recommended practices, potentially minimizing evacuation delays and enhancing overall passenger safety. It also informs training and safety briefings to better prepare staff and passengers for emergencies.