What should be done during a manual customer count request?

During a manual customer count request, completing the Inflight Preliminary Report is essential because this document serves as an official record of the number of passengers on board. Accurate passenger counts are crucial for safety purposes, regulatory compliance, and effective communication with ground operations. This report is part of the standard operating procedures that help ensure that all passengers are accounted for, especially in cases of emergencies or irregular operations.

While notifying the flight deck may seem important, the priority in such a situation is typically to document the passenger count accurately first. Additionally, distributing snacks or checking emergency exits, although relevant to in-flight service and safety, do not directly contribute to the immediate requirement of accounting for all passengers. Thus, the primary focus during a manual customer count request should be on accurately completing the necessary report.