Is it true that the captain is the sole person authorized to declare an emergency?

The statement that the captain is the sole person authorized to declare an emergency is not entirely accurate. While the captain has the ultimate authority and responsibility for the safety of the aircraft and all passengers, this does not mean they are the only individual capable of making an emergency declaration. In various situations, other qualified crew members may recognize a critical threat to safety and could communicate the need for emergency procedures or even suggest a declaration of emergency. Ultimately, emergency situations can involve multiple crew members, and a collaborative approach may lead to the best outcomes for safety.

Furthermore, flight operations, safety protocols, and regulations often outline circumstances where other crew members or operational personnel are trained and authorized to assist in determining the severity of a situation. This shared responsibility allows for better situational awareness and timely action, essential in high-pressure environments. The captain has the final say, but the collective assessment and communication within the crew can facilitate quicker responses to emergencies.