Well, the book answer is all of them since they have passed all their required training.

The real answer is about 95+%. But they don't have to be physical specimens. After all, the passengers are briefed to open over-wing exits on command. On my airplane where most of the senior FA's live, the emergency exits are powered.

On my last trip, the first class galley queen was about 65 years old, 6'1, 200 pounds. I think she could have dragged my fat butt off the airplane if necessary, certainly with some helpers. So yes, I do think they could save me if necessary. At the very least they are trained to keep their heads and recruit help. I mean after all, if you didn't think they could, how do you sleep at night?

And are you certain youth guarantees presence of mind and physical strength. Years ago, we had an evac and one of our 23 year olds panicked; was the first one out the door, screaming. I've seen some pretty delicate 25 year olds. They they were cute as hell. 5'4" 110 pounds. What kind of strength do you think they have? Have you noticed the muscle tone of a 22 year old Singapore FA? Do you think she drag you out of the cockpit?

So I guess what I'm saying is for the safety component of the job you have to look at the total person. Remember FA's are trained to recruit helpers and just coordinate the evac themselves, not play the role of he-man fire-fighter dragging kids down a ladder.

In the heat of the battle, in a real no **** situation, I'll take a crew of crusty, chain smoking, bourbon drinking, 30+ year veterans, thank you very much. You know the type: Homer Simpson's sisters-in law.

Now on layovers, that is a different matter altogether.