Originally Posted by
DALFA
So what's the interpretation of FOM 7.1.1:
•While passengers are deplaning, a pilot should stand at the deplaning door to thank our customers whenever possible.
•Pilots should not deplane until all passengers have departed the aircraft, unless early deplaning is necessary for operational reasons or passenger assistance.
"Operational reasons" means getting to the next gate (we're supposed to be at the aircraft 35 min prior) this includes having to grab food on the way. I always stay and say goodbye unless this is the case.