When the inbound crew has through passengers and the outbound crew has not yet arrived, what is the protocol?

The correct response highlights the importance of maintaining safety and operational readiness on board the aircraft. When an inbound flight arrives and there are through passengers—people who will remain on the aircraft for the next leg of the journey—it's essential for a minimum crew to stay on board.

This protocol ensures that through passengers have a responsible crew member available for any immediate needs, safety protocols, or communication regarding the flight. It also makes certain that the aircraft is monitored and prepared for the next departure, maintaining compliance with safety regulations and standards.

While it might be tempting to allow all crew members to leave, or to have everyone disembark, these actions could jeopardize the safety and experience of the passengers remaining on board. Similarly, 'preparing for departure' cannot commence until the outbound crew is present, as they are typically responsible for the flight's final preparations and briefings. Therefore, retaining a minimum crew is necessary to facilitate a smooth transition between flights and uphold the standard of care expected by Southwest Airlines.