During a security incident, who should be informed discreetly to coordinate the response?

• A. The captain and flight deck
• B. Purser and flight deck
• C. The ground crew only
• D. The head of security on the ground

Answer: (B)

Coordinating an on-board security incident requires quick, discreet communication between those who manage the passengers and those who control the aircraft. The purser leads the cabin crew, understands the passenger flow, and can discreetly alert and direct crew actions to isolate a threat, move or shield passengers, and relay accurate information to the flight deck without causing panic. The flight deck has the authority to take immediate flight-related actions—issuing safety directives, altering the flight profile, communicating with air traffic control, and arranging an emergency landing if needed. When both the purser and the flight deck are informed, you get on-site, coordinated response that protects people and maintains control of the aircraft. Involving ground personnel is slower and outside the aircraft’s immediate operations, and relying only on the head of security on the ground introduces delay. Relying solely on the flight deck without cabin leadership can miss critical cabin coordination, so having both the purser and flight deck together provides the most effective discreet response.