Location for a suspect device

If you operate an airplane under Part 121 with more than 60 passenger seats, the aircraft must have a designated location where crew can place a suspected bomb or incendiary device if one is discovered during flight. This requirement took effect in November 2009.

The purpose is to minimize risk to the airplane by isolating the device in a location that would cause the least damage if it detonated. This is typically an area away from critical flight systems, fuel tanks, and passenger compartments—often a specific area in a cargo hold or other isolated space.

The regulation doesn't specify exactly where this location must be or what its characteristics should be, but it must be designed to reduce the potential harm from an explosion. Airlines determine the appropriate location based on each aircraft's design and layout, and crews are trained on where to place suspicious items if found.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*