Shoulder harness installation at flight crewmember stations

This regulation requires shoulder harnesses at all flight crewmember stations for two types of aircraft operating under Part 135: turbojets and aircraft with 10 or more passenger seats (not counting pilot seats).

Once installed, flight crewmembers must wear these shoulder harnesses fastened during takeoff and landing. However, there's a practical exception: crewmembers may unfasten the shoulder harness if it prevents them from performing their required duties.

This matters because it establishes mandatory safety equipment for larger or faster Part 135 operations while recognizing that certain flight duties—like reaching overhead switches, looking at approach plates, or operating controls—might require temporary removal of the shoulder harness. The regulation balances crash protection during critical phases of flight with operational necessity. Smaller Part 135 aircraft (under 10 passenger seats) that aren't turbojets are not subject to this shoulder harness requirement, though they must still comply with seatbelt regulations.

*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.*