A review of the literature shows that emergency ground conditions for aircraft occur with sufficient frequency to require emergency escape devices. The nature of these emergencies allows for a reasonable possibility of escape if care is taken in selection and design of escape provisions. For normal low-wing aircraft, the inflatable escape slide provides for reliable support during descent. Extensive experimental data are given for design of overwing emergency exits and similar installations. These data show some significant relations to body dimensions and agility of the subject. Standard methods are necessary for comparing escape exit tests in the future, if optimum design of exits and devices for minimum weight and space requirements is to be achieved.