When are passengers and crew permitted to inflate life vests?

When are passengers and crew permitted to inflate life vests?

• A. Before takeoff
• B. During taxi
• C. Upon arrival at destination
• D. Only when leaving the aircraft

Answer: (D)

The important idea here is the timing of inflating a life vest. Inside the cabin, you want to keep the vest uninflated so it doesn’t crowd your space, obstruct exits, or hinder the crew during an evacuation. Inflation is reserved for when you actually need buoyancy outside the aircraft—either once you have left the plane or are in the water. That’s why inflating only when leaving the aircraft is the correct practice: it ensures you’re buoyant where you need to be and keeps the cabin clear during evacuation.

The important idea here is the timing of inflating a life vest. Inside the cabin, you want to keep the vest uninflated so it doesn’t crowd your space, obstruct exits, or hinder the crew during an evacuation. Inflation is reserved for when you actually need buoyancy outside the aircraft—either once you have left the plane or are in the water. That’s why inflating only when leaving the aircraft is the correct practice: it ensures you’re buoyant where you need to be and keeps the cabin clear during evacuation.