Which individuals are permitted to be seated in the cabin of an all-cargo aircraft?

In all-cargo aircraft operations, regulations typically dictate that the cabin be reserved primarily for the transport of cargo. However, there are exceptions to this rule, particularly when it comes to individuals permitted to be onboard for specific purposes. The pilot-in-command (PIC) has the authority to make decisions regarding who may be onboard the aircraft, based on safety considerations and operational requirements. This can include authorized personnel such as maintenance crew or other essential staff who need to be present during certain operations.

Individuals identified as authorized by the PIC are allowed on board because they are there for operational reasons—whether to monitor cargo handling, assist with specific operational tasks, or ensure safety during the flight. Other options presented do not account for the regulatory constraints and operational protocols that dictate who can ride on an all-cargo aircraft, which is primarily a freight operation.

Family members of the crew, passengers with special needs, and solely freight handlers without prior authorization from the PIC do not typically fall under the categories of individuals allowed in the cabin, as their presence does not align with the intended purpose of such aircraft and may pose safety challenges.