9.16.16 – (LAA) – 757 Atlas-equipped Galley Counter Latches To Be Modified

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Friday, September 16, 2016

Counter Latches To Be Modified on 757 Atlas-equipped Galleys – LAA

Over the past few weeks, APFA has been advocating for Flight Attendants who have expressed concern about the length of counter latches on the new retrofitted Atlas-equipped galleys on the 757.

The counter latches are currently certified to retain catering carts in place; however, they are not long enough to provide an added measure of safety by preventing unlatched cart doors from opening. APFA contends that this double layer of protection is imperative in order to prevent inadvertent safety issues resulting from malfunctioning cart door latches.

Thanks to your reports, the Company has agreed to modify the design to install longer latches, as well as replace latches on Atlas-equipped 757 aircraft already in service.

If you fly on an Atlas-equipped aircraft with unmodified counter latches and come across catering cart doors that will not latch, please advise the Captain and catering immediately if on the ground. If in flight, please tag the inoperative cart, fill out a Flight Attendant report on your tablet, and consider submitting a Cabin ASAP Report.

Noelle Weiler
APFA National Safety/Security Chair
safety@apfa.org