How does the flight deck notify FA?

• A. Planned emergency notification (6 chimes: HI, LO, HI, LO, HI, LO) when safe to move
• B. Verbal instruction over interphone
• C. Visual signal from cockpit
• D. Automatic cabin lights

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the flight deck uses a standardized audible signal to summon the flight attendants and coordinate their actions. The six-chime pattern—alternating high and low tones—is a universal alert from the cockpit that something requiring the crew’s attention is happening and that it is now safe to move or begin the prescribed duties. This method works well because it is immediate, language-independent, and can be heard throughout the cabin even in noise or poor PA clarity. Verbal instructions over the interphone are used for specific, individual commands, but the six-chime signal is the official, collective notification that signals all FAs to respond and prepare. Visual signals or automatic cabin lights aren’t the standard means to summon the crew in an emergency or planned emergency scenario, since they don’t provide the same clear, immediate, crew-wide alert.