(1) Each certificate holder shall determine, to the extent necessary to perform the applicable functions of
paragraph (d) of this section, the suitability of each
person it permits to occupy an exit seat, in accordance with this section. For the purpose of this section -
(i) Exit seat means -
(A) Each seat having direct access to an exit; and,
(B) Each seat in a row of seats through which passengers would have to pass to gain access to an exit, from the first seat inboard of the exit to the first aisle inboard of the exit.
(ii) A passenger seat having “direct access” means a seat from which a passenger can proceed directly to the exit without entering an aisle or passing around an obstruction.