Who is responsible for kicking out the life raft during ditching?

The first person to reach the life raft is responsible for kicking it out during ditching because this action requires immediate response and accessibility. In emergency situations, the priority is to act swiftly to ensure the safety of all occupants in the aircraft. Designating this responsibility to the first individual who can access the raft allows for a more efficient evacuation process.

This person is often expected to act without waiting for specific orders from the pilot or co-pilot, as the situation can be chaotic and time-sensitive. The focus is on getting the life raft into the water as quickly as possible to provide a means for survival, which may depend on the quick actions of the nearest crew member. This helps ensure that those on board can swiftly transition to safety after leaving the aircraft.