FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Is this the new normal? (lack of seat belt enforcement)
Old Mar 27, 2024 | 5:35 pm
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lincolnjkc
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Originally Posted by 1KChinito
1. Preparing for take off
a) Passenger can lie flat in economy section buckled in
b) Small item between seat and passenger’s feet in bulkhead section

2. During flight, when seatbelt light is turned on, only minor turbulence, no flight attendants walking up and down aisles making sure everyone is buckled in

3. Preparing for landing with no turbulence, no flight attendant is seen walking around making sure everyone is buckled in and seats are in upright position
1a. I'm not aware of a requirement for the passenger to be in the upright and locked position, just the seat. As long as they aren't posing a hazard to other passengers (e.g. legs sticking into the aisle or unbelted and thus a possible missile) what is the problem/concern?
1b. This is technically a problem but depending on size/shape/color it can be difficult for FAs to see. If it is not likely to turn into a missile -- being secured between seat restraint bar and legs -- and not impeding an evacuation I'm not particularly concerned in the aisle seat and even less concerned in a window. If you think it poses a safety risk, by all means bring it to a FA's attention but otherwise if a FA doesn't see it...

2. The "seatbelt patrol" hasn't really been a thing in a few years so far as I can recall. Occasionally there will be a "seatbelts...seatbelts...seatbelts..." but this is something I certainly don't miss from the old days. If someone is actively getting up there may or may not be a PA reminder

3. Now that FAs are being required to prepare the cabin much earlier in flight the final safety check IME is done as part of the final garbage collection round and the only way you'd notice it is if you or someone around has a not-fully-upright seat or unbuckled
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