What must occur if preflight duties cannot be completed before boarding?

If preflight duties cannot be completed before boarding, those duties must be done prior to door closure. This is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, preflight duties are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the aircraft and its passengers. These duties include checks related to emergency equipment, reviewing safety protocols, and confirming that the cabin is ready for boarding.

Completing these duties before the doors are closed helps guarantee that any issues can be addressed immediately, minimizing risk. Doing them in flight or after takeoff is not feasible, as the crew needs to be prepared and alert for any potential issues during taxi, takeoff, and the flight itself. Additionally, fulfilling these responsibilities before the doors close ensures compliance with aviation regulations and operational procedures designed to prioritize safety. Skipping these tasks is not an option, as they are integral to maintaining the standards required for safe flight operations.