Crewmember requirements at stops where passengers remain on board

When passengers remain on board during a stop, airlines must ensure qualified personnel stay available for emergency evacuations. The specific requirements depend on the aircraft size:

For smaller aircraft not requiring flight attendants: At least one person trained in emergency evacuation procedures must either stay on board or remain nearby where they can monitor passengers—but only if engines are shut down and a floor-level exit stays open.

For larger aircraft normally requiring flight attendants: If the full crew isn't present, engines must be shut down, a floor-level exit must remain open, and at least half the normally required flight attendants (rounded down, minimum one) must stay aboard. Airlines may substitute other trained personnel if they're identified to passengers. When multiple attendants remain, they must spread throughout the cabin for effective emergency response. With only one person aboard, they must follow the airline's FAA-approved positioning procedures.

This ensures passengers are never left unattended without someone capable of directing an emergency evacuation.

*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.*