FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Easy
During boarding of a Part 121 flight, a flight attendant notices a passenger's carry-on bag sitting in the aisle directly in front of an emergency exit. Under 14 CFR 121.589, what must happen before departure?
- AThe bag may stay in place as long as it weighs less than 25 pounds
- BThe bag must be stowed so that it does not restrict access to the aisle or any emergency exit
- CThe bag must be moved to the aft cargo compartment before pushback
- DThe bag may remain if the passenger agrees to move it in an emergency
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The bag must be stowed so that it does not restrict access to the aisle or any emergency exit
14 CFR 121.589 requires that all baggage carried in the passenger cabin be stowed in an approved location that does not obstruct access to any required aisle or emergency exit, and be secured so it cannot become a hazard.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Weight alone does not determine whether stowage location is acceptable.
- C. Cabin baggage does not need to go to cargo compartments if properly stowed in the cabin.
- D. Verbal agreement does not satisfy the regulatory stowage requirement.
Carry-on Baggage Stowage (121.589)
Baggage carried in the passenger cabin must be stowed at an approved location that does not block aisles or emergency exits and must be secured for takeoff and landing.
- Applies to all cabin baggage, not just carry-ons in overhead bins
- Must not obstruct aisle or exit access
- Must be restrained so it cannot shift during flight
Memory trick: 'Bags block nothing — exits stay open.'