What is the purpose of Inflatable Free Aisle Restrictors (IFAR) and where are they found on the A350?

• A. To reduce doorway width; located at the end of the inflatable structure of the single-lane slide/rafts at doors 1L/R
• B. To increase doorway width; located at doors 2L/2R
• C. To seal exit doors; located near cabin ceiling
• D. To count passengers; located near floor

Answer: (A)

Inflatable Free Aisle Restrictors are part of the door slide system and are used to shape the exit path during an evacuation. Their job is to narrow the doorway opening so passengers move in a controlled, single-file line toward the slide, helping to prevent crowding and keep the slide deployment smooth.

On the A350, these devices sit at the end of the inflatable portion of the single-lane slide/raft at the front doors (1 left and 1 right). When the slide deploys, the IFAR inflates to pinch the doorway opening to the appropriate width, creating a defined path for evacuees. This is not about widening the door, sealing it, or counting passengers; it’s about ensuring a safe, orderly exit by constraining the doorway during deployment.