FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Hard
During boarding, a load agent places several boxes of cargo in the aft passenger compartment, partially obstructing access to a floor-level emergency exit. Under 14 CFR 121.285, is this cargo placement acceptable?
- AYes, provided the flight attendant verbally briefs passengers about the obstruction
- BNo, because cargo is never permitted in the passenger compartment under any circumstances
- CNo, because cargo in the passenger compartment may not restrict access to any required emergency exit
- DYes, as long as the cargo is properly secured against shifting in flight
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. No, because cargo in the passenger compartment may not restrict access to any required emergency exit
14 CFR 121.285 permits cargo in the passenger compartment only under specific conditions, including that it must not restrict access to, or use of, any required emergency or regular exit, or of the aisle in the passenger compartment. Obstructing exit access violates this requirement regardless of how well the cargo is secured.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A verbal briefing cannot substitute for maintaining clear exit access as required by regulation.
- B. Cargo is permitted in the passenger compartment under certain conditions—it is not an absolute prohibition.
- D. Securing prevents shifting but does not cure an exit-access obstruction violation.
Cargo in Passenger Compartment (121.285)
Regulates conditions under which cargo may be carried in the passenger cabin without compromising safety or emergency egress.
- Cargo must not block aisles or emergency exits
- Must be secured to prevent shifting or restricting occupants
- Must not interfere with emergency equipment access
Memory trick: Boxes may ride in back, but never in front of the exit door.