What action should be taken if any seat equipment is inoperative?

When any seat equipment is inoperative, restricting seat occupancy and reseating passengers is essential for both safety and comfort. This action ensures that all passengers are in seats that are fully functional and comply with safety regulations. Inoperative seat equipment could affect features vital for passenger safety, such as seat belts, which must be operational during flight. By addressing the issue proactively, flight crews can manage the known risks and maintain compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations.

Relying on passengers to manage the situation themselves or ignoring the inoperative seat equipment fails to adhere to safety standards and can lead to improper use of potentially unsafe seating. Notifying passengers about the issue without taking steps to mitigate any risks may not provide sufficient resolution, especially if they are seated in an area where the equipment is not working. Reporting solely to maintenance without taking immediate action in the cabin could leave passengers at risk while awaiting repair. Thus, managing seat assignments ensures that safety regulations are upheld effectively.