The Federal Aviation Administration is conducting studies on two critical aviation safety issues: lithium battery fires aboard aircraft and optimal cabin layouts for emergency evacuations.

The agency is examining the growing concern over exploding lithium batteries on planes, which pose fire risks in aircraft cabins. CBS News reports the FAA is working to develop improved safety measures to address these battery-related incidents.

Separately, aviation safety researchers are studying aircraft cabin configurations to determine the most effective layouts for passenger evacuations during emergencies. The research focuses on how passenger demographics affect evacuation times and safety outcomes.

According to evacuation studies, the optimal cabin layout involves evenly distributing elderly passengers throughout different sections of the aircraft. Elderly passengers typically move more slowly during evacuations, and their strategic placement can help prevent bottlenecks that could impede the evacuation process.

Both initiatives are part of ongoing efforts by aviation authorities to enhance passenger safety through evidence-based policy changes and improved emergency procedures. The studies aim to provide data that could inform future regulations and safety protocols for commercial aviation.