What is the primary purpose of call buttons and interphones in emergencies on board?

• A. They enable rapid coordination between passengers, cabin crew, and cockpit.
• B. They are used only for requesting meal service.
• C. They are decorative and have no function.
• D. They can only be used by flight attendants.

Answer: (C)

In an emergency, these controls exist to get fast, two‑way communication where it’s most needed—between passengers, cabin crew, and the flight deck. A passenger pressing a call button alerts the cabin crew so they can assess the situation, summon help, and relay critical details to the pilots. The interphone lets crew communicate directly with the cockpit to coordinate actions, share updates, and receive instructions. This is a safety feature designed for quick escalation and clear guidance in urgent moments.

Sending a call for service or saying it’s decorative miss the point: these systems are functional, intended for emergencies, and not limited to flight attendants only.