What use do these “remove before takeoff” thingies on the emergency exit of airplanes do?

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They look like a plug or key of some sort, located right next/on the emergency exit. I even saw the stewards TRIPLE check each other if it was removed so it must be really important.
Thankful if someone explains!

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5 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

To my understanding, at least in airbus narrowbody jets, the emergency exit slides can be “locked” in a disabled position by placing a pin to lock a handle in place.

This feature is nice when on the ground to prevent accidental activation of the emergency slides during routine operations, but in the event of a emergency evacuation on the ground, that position would render that exit largely useless.

Hence why airlines/regulators require visible cues that should be a clear reminder that the slides are not armed.

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