What is the purpose of the safety demonstration before takeoff?

The safety demonstration before takeoff serves a crucial role in ensuring passenger awareness of emergency procedures that may be necessary during a flight. This demonstration provides vital information about how to use emergency exits, seatbelts, oxygen masks, and life vests, among other safety features. By familiarizing passengers with these protocols, the airline aims to minimize confusion and panic in the event of an emergency, ultimately enhancing passenger safety.

While other options, such as providing entertainment or showcasing aircraft features, might appear appealing, they do not align with the primary goal of prioritizing safety. Additionally, distributing menu cards is not part of the safety demonstration, as that activity is typically conducted after safety instructions have been communicated. The emphasis on preparing passengers for unlikely but potentially critical situations underscores the importance of the safety demonstration as a foundational aspect of flight operations.