What is the purpose of a pre-departure safety check by the purser or senior flight attendant?

• A. Confirm crew readiness, safety equipment status, and cabin readiness for departure.
• B. Prepare meals for service.
• C. Inspect exterior of aircraft.
• D. Set cabin lighting levels.

Answer: (A)

The pre-departure safety check is about making sure the flight is truly ready for safe departure by validating three things: the crew is prepared to perform safety duties and handle emergencies, the safety equipment is present and operable, and the cabin is prepared for passengers to board and evacuate if needed. The purser or senior flight attendant leads this check to confirm that everyone knows their emergency roles, that gear such as life vests, oxygen, fire extinguishers, PBE, medical kits, and emergency slides are accounted for and functioning, and that the cabin is secure and ready—seats are secured, aisles and exits are clear, galleys and lavatories are secure, and safety demonstration materials are ready. This focus on safety readiness is what distinguishes it from tasks like meal preparation, exterior aircraft inspection, or simply adjusting cabin lighting, which do not directly ensure safe departure.