Finish preparations are announced approximately how long before impact?

• A. 5 minutes
• B. 1 minute
• C. 2 minutes
• D. 30 seconds

Answer: (C)

The timing of “finish preparations” is set to give everyone enough time to complete essential safety actions before impact. About two minutes before impact provides a practical window for passengers to buckle seat belts, stow trays and carry-ons, return seats to upright, and ensure all loose items are secured. It also allows cabin crew to conduct final checks, confirm everyone is seated, and secure the galley and cabin so people aren’t moving around as impact approaches.

Starting this announcement too early, like five minutes before impact, risks people becoming complacent or resuming normal activity before the situation is imminent. Waiting only a minute or less doesn’t leave enough time for all passengers to comply and for crew to finish their final checks. And thirty seconds is far too tight for everyone to respond safely. Two minutes strikes the right balance, giving a clear cue to secure the cabin without unnecessary delay.