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Load
All aircraft are limited to a maximum weight and centre of gravity range. It is dangerous to overload an aircraft or concentrate the weight too far forward or rearward. Tell the operator in advance the number of passengers and amount of baggage you want to transport so the right aircraft can be used. Never pressure a pilot to take additional cargo. Loose baggage can become dangerous missiles in an accident and may also block exits. If you are not satisfied that cabin baggage is stowed safely, tell your pilot.

Safety Equipment
An air operator must provide a life preserver for each person when operating from water and for long flights over water. Also, the air operator must carry survival equipment capable of providing a means for starting a fire, providing shelter, purify/providing water and visually signalling distress given the geography, season and anticipated seasonal climate changes of the area over which you will be flying. Ask the pilot where this equipment is stowed and how to get at it.
Consider carrying safety equipment of your own, such as some strong cord, a signalling mirror and extra clothing. Take suggestions form survival books you have read. Ask about the location and operation of the emergency locator transmitter (ELT). The ELT is a battery-powered radio that transmits an emergency signal to enable search aircraft to locate you in the event of a crash.

Security Measures
New security measures now prohibit the possession of knives, pocket-knives and all knife-like objects, straight razors, scissors or ice picks in the passenger cabin of an aircraft, including chartered aircraft. Such objects can be carried in checked-in baggage only and which are inaccessible in flight.

Pilot Responsibility
The pilot is responsible for all aspects of the flight: the weather, fuel requirements, loading, passenger briefings, and emergency and survival equipment. Feel comfortable to ask questions, such as how to open the emergency exits or operate the ELT. Ask about anything that concerns your safety.

The Flight
Pre-boarding Safety Briefing (see video)
Gum Air will provide a pre-boarding safety briefing prior to having the passengers approaching the aircraft before departure. This briefing will include safety measures while walking to and around the aircraft and the need to closely supervise children or other passengers with special needs. A whirling propeller or rotor can kill you, so learn the procedures for boarding and leaving the aircraft safely. If you don't receive this information, ask for it.

Pre-flight Briefing
Every flight must start with a thorough pre-flight safety briefing that includes the stowage of carry-on baggage, smoking regulations (smoking is prohibited on all commercial aircraft in Suriname), the location and operation/use of the seat belts, normal and emergency exits, survival gear, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, flotation devices, and the actions to be taken in the event of an emergency. You should also consult the safety features card, which includes information on emergency exits and brace positions.

Takeoff
For takeoff, make sure your seat belt is tightly fastened, your carry-on baggage is stowed. Do not distract the flight crew during this important part of your flight.

Cruise
When you reach cruise altitude, keep their seat belts on at all times while seated as a precaution against unexpected turbulence.

Landing
Preparation for landing is the same as that for takeoff. Seat belts are fastened, your carry-on baggage is stowed. Again, do not distract the crew during the landing.

After Landing
Follow the flight crew’s instructions for leaving the aircraft. If no instructions are given, then ask. Watch out for those propellers!

Source: Transport Canada
A Safety Guide for
Aircraft Charter Passengers