What is the role of the cockpit crew during an in-flight emergency?

The role of the cockpit crew during an in-flight emergency encompasses several critical responsibilities that are essential to ensuring the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. Effective communication with the cabin crew is crucial, as they need to coordinate responses and provide updates about the situation. The cockpit crew is also tasked with managing the aircraft's flight systems, which may include handling controls, monitoring instruments, and implementing emergency protocols to keep the aircraft stable and secure. Additionally, informing air traffic control is a vital part of their responsibilities, as it allows for appropriate measures to be taken by ground services, and ensures that other aircraft in the vicinity are aware of the emergency situation.

The other options focus on tasks that are either unrelated to emergency management or not a priority during such incidents. Managing passenger seating, providing refreshments, and conducting safety demonstrations do not address the immediate needs and responsibilities that arise during an in-flight emergency. These roles are typically important in general operations but are secondary when urgent situations require the cockpit crew's focused attention on mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of everyone on board.