Which of the following statements about safety belt usage for passengers is true?

• A. Safety belts must be used during taxi, takeoffs and landings
• B. Safety belts must be used only during turbulence
• C. Safety belts are optional during taxi
• D. Safety belts are required during cruise only

Answer: (A)

Wearing a safety belt is required whenever you’re seated and the aircraft may move, especially during taxi, takeoff, and landing. These phases involve the most movement and potential for sudden changes in speed or direction, such as braking, thrust changes, or gusts, so staying belted helps keep you in your seat, prevents injury, and allows you to respond to controls as needed. While turbulence is a risk and you should keep the belt fastened when seated, the requirement isn’t limited to turbulence alone. It’s not correct to say belts are optional during taxi, nor that they’re required only during cruise; during taxi, takeoff, and landing, the belt should be fastened.