B737-700
Flight Attendant Current
Communication Breakdown; Confusion; Situational Awareness
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Passenger Misconduct
Flight Crew Returned To Gate
Company Policy; Human Factors
We encountered a couple with a child over the age of two years old. They refused to buckle the child in the seat belt for takeoff. The flights that day had been very turbulent.After discussing the situation with the other flight attendants and the Captain; we returned to the gate. At that point; two Ground supervisors came aboard and talked to the passengers. The supervisor told the crew that he discussed the matter with the couple and they agreed to adhere to C.F.R(s).The child was buckled in and the plane took off. Once in the air; the child remained in the seat belt throughout the flight. A follow-up call was received from [the company] Supervisor. She explained that there was a new directive coming from Headquarters and that once we inform the passenger that they should buckle their child during takeoff and landing but we are not to enforce C.F.R. It would be to the parent's discretion if the child should be buckled on takeoff and landing. She explained that passengers could perceive themselves as being 'bullied' if they are required to follow these regulations and procedures. Our focus is on hospitality. I am reporting based on the new directive I am required to adhere to; even though it is a FAR violation as stated; 10. REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS REGARDING THE USE OF CRSs ON AIRCRAFT. a. Children Under the Age of Two. Under the provisions in parts 121; 125; and 135; during takeoff; landing; and movement on the surface; each person on board shall occupy an approved seat or berth with a separate seat belt properly secured about him/her. However; a person who has not reached his/her second birthday may be held by an adult occupying a seat or berth.
Flight Attendant reported concerns regarding the legality of a new company policy on the seatbelt requirements for children.