FAA Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)Regulations (14 CFR 61/91)Easy
A pilot is preparing for taxi, takeoff, and landing with three passengers aboard, one of whom is an infant who has not reached their second birthday. According to 14 CFR 91.107, which statement correctly describes the seat belt requirement for this flight?
- AThe infant is exempt and may be held by an adult occupant instead of being secured by a separate seat belt
- BAll occupants, including the infant, must occupy an approved seat with their own seat belt fastened
- CSeat belts are only required during takeoff, not during taxi or landing
- DOnly the pilot in command is required to wear a seat belt; passengers are exempt
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The infant is exempt and may be held by an adult occupant instead of being secured by a separate seat belt
14 CFR 91.107(a)(3) requires each occupant to be secured by an approved seat belt during taxi, takeoff, and landing, except a child who has not reached their second birthday may be held by an adult occupant instead.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is incorrect because the rule specifically exempts infants under 2 when held by an adult.
- C. Seat belts are required during taxi, takeoff, and landing, not just takeoff.
- D. All occupants (with the infant exception) must be secured, not just the PIC.
Seat Belt Requirement (91.107)
Each occupant must be secured by an approved seat belt (and shoulder harness if installed) during taxi, takeoff, and landing, except a child under age 2 may be held by an adult.
- PIC must brief passengers on seat belt use
- Applies during taxi, takeoff, and landing
- Exception: child under 2 may be held instead of belted
Memory trick: Buckle everyone up — except babies still in arms.