Originally Posted by
tom11011
Some airlines pay crews based on when the door closes. This is probably the best way since the captain assumes full responsibility at this point. Up until that point, the gate agent typically owns the airplane.
Not all airlines follow this guidance, go read NTSB 830 and FAR 121 to see what they define as responsibility. Remember all company manuals are written as to follow FARs but if an FAR is restrictive then that overrules the company manual. I am sure you know this but I am just putting it down to help spread the knowledge for the new guys just getting into the industry.