Emergency flotation means

Emergency Flotation Means

This regulation requires Part 121 operators to equip aircraft with emergency flotation devices for every occupant during overwater operations. These must be either life preservers (as specified in §121.339) or other FAA-approved flotation means. The devices must be within easy reach of each seated person and readily removable from the aircraft.

However, operators can request an exemption from the FAA if they can demonstrate that the water along their route is too small or shallow for flotation devices to be necessary for survival in a water landing. This exemption recognizes that not all overwater flights pose the same risk—flying over a narrow river or shallow bay differs significantly from crossing an ocean.

In practice, this means most oceanic and extended coastal flights require life preservers for all aboard, while some shorter overwater segments might qualify for exemption based on the specific water characteristics below the flight path.

*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.*