If a passenger asks to occupy a seat near the emergency exit, what should you do?

• A. Grant the seat if available regardless of policy.
• B. Tell the passenger they cannot sit there and do nothing else.
• C. Confirm seating policy with lead and captain and assist within policy.
• D. Move the exit row occupant to a different seat without policy reference.

Answer: (C)

Safety around emergency exit seating requires verifying that the passenger can assist in an evacuation and understand the briefing. The best approach is to confirm the seating policy with the lead and the captain and assist within that policy. This ensures the passenger meets criteria such as age and physical ability, can read and understand instructions, and won’t be a hindrance in an emergency. It also keeps you aligned with company procedures and regulatory requirements, and it involves the proper chain of command so any decisions are documented and authorized. If the passenger doesn’t meet the criteria, the lead or captain will guide you to a compliant alternative. Granting the seat without policy, dismissing the issue and doing nothing else, or moving the exit-row occupant without policy guidance can create safety risks and violate rules.