7.28.25 – Safety First – One Flight Attendant Per Widebody Door

Safety First – One Flight Attendant Per Widebody Door

Monday, July 28, 2025

APFA continues to sound the alarm regarding the recently recertified 787-9P, which is now operated with a minimum crew of just seven (7) Flight Attendants. For the safety of passengers in an emergency evacuation, a Flight Attendant must be present and prepared to operate all eight emergency exit doors. This recertification to seven (7) minimum crew has crossed a critical line.

APFA National President Julie Hedrick formally addressed this safety concern in a letter to newly confirmed FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford:

“Since the 1970’s, until COVID, at least one Flight Attendant was stationed at every widebody emergency exit door. Our Boeing 787s typically operated with ten (10) Flight Attendants, which ensured readiness for any emergency evacuation. During the pandemic, airline management used reduced passenger loads as justification to permanently cut onboard staffing.

While service staffing levels remain reduced, the recent reduction in the minimum crew from eight (8) to seven (7) Flight Attendants directly impacts the safety of all onboard. There is no question that an unattended emergency exit hinders the ability for passengers and crew to evacuate safely and efficiently within the 90-second parameter.”

Click here to read the full letter to Administrator Bedford

We need you to continue to take action!

Tell American Airlines management that each widebody emergency exit door must have a Flight Attendant prepared to operate it in an emergency evacuation.

Click here to take immediate action!

In Solidarity,

Allie Malis
Lori Vitto-Glattly
APFA Government Affairs Representatives
[email protected]