Flight Attendant Reports - NASA · PDF fileFlight Attendant Reports . Report Set Description ... Report Set, with the objective of providing the fifty most recent relevant ASRS Database

ASRS Database Report Set

Flight Attendant Reports

Report Set Description .........................................A sampling of reports from Flight Attendants.

Update Number ....................................................31.0

Date of Update .....................................................February 28, 2017

Number of Records in Report Set ........................50

Number of New Records in Report Set ...............49

Type of Records in Report Set.............................For each update, new records received at ASRS will displace a like number of the oldest records in the Report Set, with the objective of providing the fifty most recent relevant ASRS Database records. Records within this Report Set have been screened to assure their relevance to the topic.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000

TH: 262-7

MEMORANDUM FOR: Recipients of Aviation Safety Reporting System Data

SUBJECT: Data Derived from ASRS Reports

The attached material is furnished pursuant to a request for data from the NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS). Recipients of this material are reminded when evaluating these data of the following points.

ASRS reports are submitted voluntarily. The existence in the ASRS database of reports concerning a specific topic cannot, therefore, be used to infer the prevalence of that problem within the National Airspace System.

Information contained in reports submitted to ASRS may be amplified by further contact with the individual who submitted them, but the information provided by the reporter is not investigated further. Such information represents the perspective of the specific individual who is describing their experience and perception of a safety related event.

After preliminary processing, all ASRS reports are de-identified and the identity of the individual who submitted the report is permanently eliminated. All ASRS report processing systems are designed to protect identifying information submitted by reporters; including names, company affiliations, and specific times of incident occurrence. After a report has been de-identified, any verification of information submitted to ASRS would be limited.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and its ASRS current contractor, Booz Allen Hamilton, specifically disclaim any responsibility for any interpretation which may be made by others of any material or data furnished by NASA in response to queries of the ASRS database and related materials.

Linda J. Connell, Director NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System

CAVEAT REGARDING USE OF ASRS DATA

Certain caveats apply to the use of ASRS data. All ASRS reports are voluntarily submitted, and thus cannot be considered a measured random sample of the full population of like events. For example, we receive several thousand altitude deviation reports each year. This number may comprise over half of all the altitude deviations that occur, or it may be just a small fraction of total occurrences.

Moreover, not all pilots, controllers, mechanics, flight attendants, dispatchers or other participants in the aviation system are equally aware of the ASRS or may be equally willing to report. Thus, the data can reflect reporting biases. These biases, which are not fully known or measurable, may influence ASRS information. A safety problem such as near midair collisions (NMACs) may appear to be more highly concentrated in area “A” than area “B” simply because the airmen who operate in area “A” are more aware of the ASRS program and more inclined to report should an NMAC occur. Any type of subjective, voluntary reporting will have these limitations related to quantitative statistical analysis.

One thing that can be known from ASRS data is that the number of reports received concerning specific event types represents the lower measure of the true number of such events that are occurring. For example, if ASRS receives 881 reports of track deviations in 2010 (this number is purely hypothetical), then it can be known with some certainty that at least 881 such events have occurred in 2010. With these statistical limitations in mind, we believe that the real power of ASRS data is the qualitative information contained in report narratives. The pilots, controllers, and others who report tell us about aviation safety incidents and situations in detail – explaining what happened, and more importantly, why it happened. Using report narratives effectively requires an extra measure of study, but the knowledge derived is well worth the added effort.

Report Synopses

ACN: 1411247 (1 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported experiencing adverse health effects that they believed

were caused by chemicals in new uniforms issued by her company.

ACN: 1408160 (2 of 50)

Synopsis Flight Attendant (FA) reported being verbally assaulted by a passenger who was upset at

not being able to used the forward lavatory while the pilots were rotating through a

bathroom break. After the confrontation, the FA felt nauseous and suffered an asthma

attack. Paramedics met the aircraft upon arrival and evaluated the FA as safe to go home.

ACN: 1407625 (3 of 50)

Synopsis EMB-175 Flight Attendant reported everyone evacuated the aircraft after the cabin filled

with smoke during the boarding process.

ACN: 1407624 (4 of 50)

Synopsis Two ERJ-175 flight attendants reported diverting to an alternate to have a passenger

removed for misconduct.

ACN: 1407384 (5 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported turbulence so severe that the shoulder harness had to

be removed to avoid injury.

ACN: 1407383 (6 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported the aircraft returned to the gate when the Captain was

advised some HazMat had been improperly loaded.

ACN: 1407181 (7 of 50)

Synopsis A321 Flight Attendant reported the aircraft diverted to an alternate airport after

experiencing engine problems.

ACN: 1407140 (8 of 50)

Synopsis CRJ-900 Flight Attendant reported that the person assigned to do the security check prior

to departure did not do it, but signed the security sheet indicating that it had been

accomplished. The aircraft cleaners needed to sign the sheet also, but never did show up.

ACN: 1406896 (9 of 50)

Synopsis A319 Flight Attendant reported an oily smell in the cabin.

ACN: 1406836 (10 of 50)

Synopsis A Flight Attendant reported an abusive, foul mouthed male passenger was removed from

the flight during boarding. The CSR stated he was disruptive even before boarding.

ACN: 1405475 (11 of 50)

Synopsis B737 Flight Attendant reported concern with the food handling on aircraft not equipped

with chillers.

ACN: 1403760 (12 of 50)

Synopsis B757 Flight Attendant reported several cabin crewmembers were injured when the aircraft

made a sudden stop while taxiing.

ACN: 1402601 (13 of 50)

Synopsis A B737 jump seating Flight Attendant in the aft galley reported a faint sounding alarm and

discovered a passenger that has used a vapor cigarette in the lavatory. The Flight

Attendant found the lavatory safe, but wondered why the alarm had not sounded loudly.

ACN: 1402038 (14 of 50)

Synopsis An Air carrier Flight Attendant reported that she was notified by another Flight Attendant

that a passenger did not return to the aircraft after she deplaned during boarding.

ACN: 1401624 (15 of 50)

Synopsis Flight Attendant reported a very sick child in the back of the aircraft during deplaning, but

they could not contact the forward Flight Attendant because the power had been turned off

by the flight crew. Climbing over seats was the only solution.

ACN: 1400778 (16 of 50)

Synopsis CRJ-200 Captain and Flight Attendant reported an intoxicated and belligerent passenger

was removed from the flight when they returned to the gate.

ACN: 1399360 (17 of 50)

Synopsis B747 Flight Attendant reported an extremely loud squeal coming from the 1L door during

climb and reported it to the pilots. There were no door warnings or pressurization problems

and the flight continued to destination.

ACN: 1398422 (18 of 50)

Synopsis B737-700 Flight Attendant reported that her hand was impaled by a wire spring inside a

galley compartment. It took medical personnel and a Mechanic to release her hand after

arrival at destination.

ACN: 1397234 (19 of 50)

Synopsis A321 Flight Attendant reported dizziness and a headache from strong forward cabin odor

which the aft flight attendant detected also. The odor decreased, but returned strongly

during descent.

ACN: 1396748 (20 of 50)

Synopsis A Flight Attendant on a B737-800 reported that a disabled passenger refused to stow a

backpack because it was being used as a leg support.

ACN: 1395665 (21 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported receiving a reassignment that would have had her

awake for 25 hours before the final arrival.

ACN: 1393996 (22 of 50)

Synopsis B777 Flight Attendant reported possible FAR deviations from emergency equipment access

standards at door 1L.

ACN: 1389509 (23 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier flight attendants reported having to care for a passenger who had several

incapacitating medical problems, but was allowed to travel alone.

ACN: 1388303 (24 of 50)

Synopsis Flight Attendant reported discovering a lung cancer patient inhaling oxygen from a

personal bottle not listed on the manifest. The bottle was turned off and replaced with an

onboard bottle.

ACN: 1387761 (25 of 50)

Synopsis Flight Attendant reported encountering an apparently intoxicated and belligerent passenger

during inflight service. The passenger was restricted from flying on his next segment.

ACN: 1385252 (26 of 50)

Synopsis Two B767 flight attendants reported an encounter with clear air turbulence and the injuries

that resulted. The flight diverted to take care of the injured flight attendants and

passengers.

ACN: 1382450 (27 of 50)

Synopsis A deadheading Flight Attendant reported an encounter with turbulence that occurred

during cabin service. One of the flight attendants was injured. The reporter lamented the

lack of communication between the pilots and flight attendants before and after the

incident.

ACN: 1382136 (28 of 50)

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant reported while having a very rough approach the pilots did a go-around

and something hit the right wing. The flight attendants did not have any communication

with the flight deck.

ACN: 1382115 (29 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported a couple with a young child attempted to sit in the

emergency exit row. The couple wished to change places with a woman in the row in front,

but she declined due to not being strong enough. A deadheading pilot told the woman to

sit in the exit row and he would help if it became necessary against policy. The lady was

reseated prior to takeoff at the Captain's direction.

ACN: 1380984 (30 of 50)

Synopsis A321 Flight Attendant reported that before, during, and after boarding, everyone on board

the aircraft complained of a pungent fuel, fish, and kerosene/paint thinner odor. The crew

and passengers were taken off the aircraft which was moved to the hangar. Medical tests

found no apparent ill effects.

ACN: 1377255 (31 of 50)

Synopsis B737 Flight Attendant reported feeling faint, passed out and hit her head on galley

counter. Medical personnel met aircraft and she was removed before passengers deplaned.

ACN: 1377250 (32 of 50)

Synopsis A Flight Attendant and a co-worker reported being sent to Dakar, Senegal late at night

with no transportation arranged by the company. After dealing with a shady character they

are able to get cab to their hotel.

ACN: 1377246 (33 of 50)

Synopsis EMB-170 Flight Attendant reported being thrown up to the ceiling then slammed to the

floor causing a severe ankle injury. She was assisted by a doctor on board and transported

to the hospital upon arrival.

ACN: 1377245 (34 of 50)

Synopsis EMB175 Flight Attendant discovered during taxi out that the aft galley trash bin was not

emptied during the overnight, indicating that the security inspection for the first flight of

the day was not completed although the security form was completed and signed. The

aircraft was returned to the gate and the inspection completed.

ACN: 1376415 (35 of 50)

Synopsis A320 Flight Attendant reported the Emergency ALL CALL lights and chimes were flashing

during taxi to the gate along with an odd smell and cabin mist. The pilots did not return

repeated intercom calls and did not debrief the crew or Maintenance after deplaning.

ACN: 1375671 (36 of 50)

Synopsis B737 Flight Attendant reported difficulty locating a braille briefing card, which was

eventually located. Enroute the Flight Attendant was informed by the passenger that the

card was not complete.

ACN: 1375391 (37 of 50)

Synopsis CRJ-900 Flight Attendant reported discovering that the TSA had affixed a security seal over

the passenger oxygen door in the forward lavatory likely rendering it inoperative.

Maintenance removed the seal.

ACN: 1375387 (38 of 50)

Synopsis A Flight Attendant in a Bombardier Dash 8 reported that after the Captain told her they

were landing due to an engine failure, she had very little time to prepare the cabin.

ACN: 1374486 (39 of 50)

Synopsis A Flight Attendant reported that she became extremely ill after getting up from her crew

break. The reporter noticed this because she was coughing and congested after her break

in the crew bunks.

ACN: 1374356 (40 of 50)

Synopsis A320 First Officer and a Flight Attendant described a passenger evacuation when a

hydraulic leak turned into dense smoke and fumes in the cabin and cockpit during taxi out.

ACN: 1374341 (41 of 50)

Synopsis

A321 Flight Attendant reported a strange and strong chemical odor while deplaning.

Subsequently the aircraft was taken out of service.

ACN: 1374340 (42 of 50)

Synopsis B737 Flight Attendant reported the crew and passengers were unknowingly exposed to

pesticide spray in the form of a heavy fog when they boarded the aircraft.

ACN: 1372671 (43 of 50)

Synopsis Air carrier Flight Attendant reported being concerned about passenger use of electronic

devices during safety checks and would like to see the policy changed to not allow their

use at those times.

ACN: 1371626 (44 of 50)

Synopsis B737 Flight Attendant reported he had to deplane the aircraft via the cargo loading belt

when no stairs were available.

ACN: 1371552 (45 of 50)

Synopsis After a crew rest in a crew rest area of a B787, a Flight Attendant woke up with a scratchy

throat and a headache.

ACN: 1371278 (46 of 50)

Synopsis An EMB-145 Flight Attendant called in fatigued after a short overnight following a day of

mechanicals and weather delays. Her fatigue affected motor and cognitive performance to

a point she felt unsafe.

ACN: 1370557 (47 of 50)

Synopsis A B777 Flight Attendant reported detecting a sweaty feet/old sock odor toward the flight's

end and during taxi. The Captain held a post flight debrief and announced the crew

considered a diversion because of a strong flight station odor. Someone mentioned an

inflight APU failure.

ACN: 1370012 (48 of 50)

Synopsis

Flight Attendant reported that during arrival in LGA they had to hold the aircraft door

handle down to prevent the gate agent from opening the door before it was disarmed.

ACN: 1369731 (49 of 50)

Synopsis CRJ-700 Flight Attendant reported the 2L door would not disarm after gate arrival, so it

was entered in the maintenance log and the crew left. Later the Flight Attendant was

notified of a live door event by another crew, so apparently Maintenance was not notified.

ACN: 1352074 (50 of 50)

Synopsis A SF-340 Flight Attendant preflighting her cabin, closed the LAV Trash Receptacle door and

the Halon fire extinguishing agent discharged onto her. She was removed from the trip

feeling ill and sweating with a foul taste when swallowing.

Report Narratives

ACN: 1411247 (1 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201609

Local Time Of Day : 0001-0600

Place

Altitude.AGL.Single Value : 0

Aircraft

Reference : X

Make Model Name : No Aircraft

Person

Reference : 1

Location Of Person.Aircraft : X

Location In Aircraft : Door Area

Cabin Activity : Boarding

Reporter Organization : Air Carrier

Function.Flight Attendant : Flight Attendant (On Duty)

Experience.Flight Attendant.Total : 26

Experience.Flight Attendant.Airline Total : 17

Experience.Flight Attendant.Number Of Acft Qualified On : 5

Experience.Flight Attendant.Type : 85

ASRS Report Number.Accession Number : 1411247

Human Factors : Physiological - Other

Analyst Callback : Attempted

Events

Anomaly.Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event : Illness

Detector.Person : Flight Attendant

Were Passengers Involved In Event : N

When Detected : Routine Inspection

Result.General : Physical Injury / Incapacitation

Assessments

Contributing Factors / Situations : Company Policy

Contributing Factors / Situations : Environment - Non Weather Related

Contributing Factors / Situations : Human Factors

Primary Problem : Ambiguous

Narrative: 1

This is directly related to the issuance of new uniforms for the employees at [my

company]. Since the issuance of the new uniform, many colleagues have had reactions to

the new uniform, whether actually wearing it, handling it, or being in close proximity to it.

The chemicals in the new uniforms are Pentachlorophenol, Tetrachlorophenols,

Trichlorophenols, free and partially releasable formaldehyde, Benzyl benzoate (CAS 120-

51-4), C.I. Disperse Orange 30 (CAS 5261-31-4), 2-(phenylmethylene)-octanol (CAS 101-

86-0), Benzaldehyde (CAS 100-52-7), 9,10-Anthracenedione (CAS 17418-58-5), and

9,10-Dimethylanthracene (CAS 781-43-1). The Environmental Protection Agency banned

the textile manufacture (in clothing) of most of these chemicals in the United States. The

new uniforms were manufactured in other countries, including China, Bangladesh, Sri

Lanka, VietNam and Indonesia. None of these countries have the regulations or protocols

that are in line with the EPA mandates. The vendor of the new uniform is also the vendor

for another airline. The flight attendants at that airline suffered ill effects from their

uniforms. After some time, the uniforms were ultimately recalled.

Because I flew a reduced schedule in both September and October due to two week

vacations in those months (yet had sinus issues and contact dermatitis as early as August

from handling the uniforms), it was not until November when I was flying a full schedule

that my health was more seriously impacted. Many of my colleagues, including myself,

have filed Injury on Duty reports because of the negative impact on our health. I am still

out sick. The medications that are my "go to" for clearing sinus infections, have been

ineffective. I have been regularly seeing my primary care physician since August as it

relates to my sinus issue. I have seen my dermatologist for the contact dermatitis. I

recently took skin tests from the allergist for environmental controls, which produced a

negative result. I will be taking a patch test in January for formaldehyde exposure, and

other chemicals on that test screen.

A report was filed with OSHA about this. I only recently learned that [the company] stated

that the matter was resolved, so OSHA closed the case. I wrote in to OSHA to dispute that

claim, as did many of my colleagues.

The concern regarding exposure and contact with the new uniform is that it will have a

cumulative, multiple toxic and negative impact on not only my colleagues, but also the

traveling public. Formaldehyde specifically can be airborne, as an example. It is a known

respiratory irritant, also causing dizziness, headaches, blurry vision; among a few of the

ailments involved with its' exposure.

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported experiencing adverse health effects that they believed

were caused by chemicals in new uniforms issued by her company.

ACN: 1408160 (2 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612

Aircraft

Reference : X

Aircraft Operator : Air Carrier

Make Model Name : B737 Undifferentiated or Other Model

Crew Size.Number Of Crew : 2

Operating Under FAR Part : Part 121

Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Cruise

Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : General Seating Area

Cabin Activity : Safety Related Duties





Events

Anomaly.Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event : Passenger Misconduct


Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : Security


Were Passengers Involved In Event : Y

When Detected : In-flight


Assessments


Primary Problem : Human Factors

Narrative: 1

I got ill during the last 2 hours of the flight after an altercation with a passenger who

refused to sit down when told he needed to and kept trying to come forward while the

pilots were taking a bathroom break. He raised his voice, yelling at me about not being

allowed to use the restroom right then. I had to tell him several times to sit down and he

just kept standing over me and arguing with me. It was very upsetting and I could feel an

adrenaline rush. An hour later I was still shaky and then started feeling nauseous just

before we started our final beverage service. I then threw up several times which

triggered an asthma attack. The C Flight Attendant (FA) got a Portable Oxygen Bottles

(POB) for me to use. Medlink was contacted and they advised getting the albuteral inhaler

from the Enhanced Emergency Medical Kit (EEMK). Even though I had already found my

Xopenex inhaler and used it they said to use that one since mine might not be effective

since it might not be up to date. The abuteral inhaler caused me to shake uncontrollably

and feel faint. So they paged for a doctor, he was an orthopedic surgeon who said there

may have also been a drop in my blood pressure which was causing me to feel faint. So

the paramedics were contacted and asked to meet the flight. After we blocked in before

the passengers deplaned the paramedics removed me from the plane. After checking my

vitals and hearing what happened they said I could go home since my husband was

picking me up. And if I felt like I needed to I could go to the ER or clinic.

I should have been much more assertive with the passenger who refused to listen to me

and just commanded that he immediately sit down or we would have the police meet our

flight to deal with him. Basically what he did was assault. He yelled loud enough at me for

our captain to hear him from the locked bathroom. I never should have allowed it to

escalate to that point by trying to be nice. I should have yelled loud enough for the other

FAs to hear me in the back of the plane since I did not feel safe to turn my back on him to

get to the intercom as they were finishing their service. I did not know if this was a plot to

try to take over our aircraft or test our responses or if he was just drunk and disorderly.

He towered over me and got in my face to yell at me. [I Suggest to] take immediate

control of the situation and don't let things escalate. Get my fellow crew there to help me

by yelling to get their attention.

Synopsis

Flight Attendant (FA) reported being verbally assaulted by a passenger who was upset at

not being able to used the forward lavatory while the pilots were rotating through a

bathroom break. After the confrontation, the FA felt nauseous and suffered an asthma

attack. Paramedics met the aircraft upon arrival and evaluated the FA as safe to go home.

ACN: 1407625 (3 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : ZZZ.Airport

State Reference : US


Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : EMB ERJ 170/175 ER/LR



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Parked

Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Cabin Jumpseat





Events

Anomaly.Aircraft Equipment Problem : Critical

Anomaly.Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event : Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor


When Detected : Aircraft In Service At Gate

Result.General : Flight Cancelled / Delayed

Result.General : Maintenance Action

Assessments

Contributing Factors / Situations : Aircraft

Primary Problem : Aircraft

Narrative: 1

We were in the process of boarding, and the aircraft shut off, the Captain said the ground

power got disconnected. So we turned the aircraft back on and the Captain had informed

us he will make an announcement that we have to shut the aircraft down again. So after

we did that, Maintenance was called out and at this point we were done boarding. I, [the

other flight attendant], and the gate agent were in the forward part of the aircraft when all

three of us heard this loud noise coming from the aircraft. It was so loud everyone heard it

and started looking out of the windows. When I looked out of the main cabin door we

noticed there was smoke coming from below the airplane and it had a horrible smoke

smell, and it quickly filled the cabin. I immediately went into the flight deck and told the

Captain, FO, and the Maintenance man and all three quickly went running down. The

Captain came back and said to deplane the aircraft. The Captain also told us to have the

passengers leave their stuff and get off quickly. So we did that and shortly after we got

cleared for the passengers to come back in groups to get their belongings, and we moved

to a new gate.

Synopsis

EMB-175 Flight Attendant reported everyone evacuated the aircraft after the cabin filled

with smoke during the boarding process.

ACN: 1407624 (4 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612


Place

Locale Reference.ATC Facility : ZZZ.ARTCC


Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Center : ZZZ





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Nav In Use : FMS Or FMC


Airspace.Class A : ZZZ

Person : 1

Reference : 1



Cabin Activity : Service




Human Factors : Other / Unknown

Person : 2

Reference : 2








Events


Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : FAR




Result.General : Police / Security Involved

Result.Flight Crew : Diverted

Assessments



Narrative: 1

Passenger was observed by FA as being intoxicated while in flight. The passenger began to

agitate another passenger sitting across from him. Both passengers stood up in the aisle

and began to push each other causing a disturbance. [Another] Flight Attendant (FA) was

also pushed by the passenger when she instructed them to sit in their seats because the

seat belt sign was on. When passenger refused to sit, she called the Captain and asked

him to make an announcement that the seat belt sign was on and he needed everyone to

be seated. I (FA-A) noticed the passengers were ignoring the Captain's request. I

immediately called the Captain and told him there was still a disturbance going on

between the passengers. They were yelling at each other and using inappropriate

language which could be heard throughout the cabin. The Captain told [the FA] to put the

passenger who was causing the disturbance on the phone so he could talk to him. The

Captain told the passenger to sit down or he would land the plane and have him removed

by the police.

At that point that passenger did sit down but continued to get up and cause a disturbance

with the other passengers. I called the Captain and informed him of this. The Captain told

me we were going to land in [an alternate] and have him removed from the plane by the

police. [I] called FA B and told her this. While the passenger was sitting he lit a cigarette

and began to smoke it. You could smell the smoke throughout the cabin. I called the

Captain and informed him that the passenger was smoking and the Captain told me that

he could smell it. The passenger would not put the cigarette out and continued to smoke.

Approximately 30 to 40 minutes later we landed and the police escorted the passenger off

the plane.

Narrative: 2

[Report narrative contained no additional information.]

Synopsis

Two ERJ-175 flight attendants reported diverting to an alternate to have a passenger

removed for misconduct.

ACN: 1407384 (5 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612

Environment

Weather Elements / Visibility : Turbulence

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Commercial Fixed Wing

Flight Phase : Initial Approach

Person

Reference : 1






Events

Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : Published Material / Policy


Anomaly.Inflight Event / Encounter : Weather / Turbulence



Result.Flight Crew : Overcame Equipment Problem

Assessments


Contributing Factors / Situations : Weather

Primary Problem : Weather

Narrative: 1

We had severe turbulence during the landing approach in IAD. I was in my jumpseat with

the seat belt on but had to remove my shoulder harness and assume a brace position

because the plane was being tossed so badly and the shoulder harness of my seat belt was

hurting me. I probably would have ended up with broken collar bones if I didn't take my

shoulder harness off. Our jumpseats don't have enough cushion to absorb the impact of

that kind of force! The plane was taken out of service and we (the crew) were pretty

shaken up. The Captain said it was the worst he had ever experienced.

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported turbulence so severe that the shoulder harness had to

be removed to avoid injury.

ACN: 1407383 (6 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612

Place




Aircraft

Reference : X



Flight Phase : Taxi

Person

Reference : 1






Human Factors : Training / Qualification

Events


Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : Hazardous Material Violation


Detector.Person : Ground Personnel

When Detected : Taxi

Result.Flight Crew : Returned To Gate

Assessments



Narrative: 1

After departing late due to a late inbound Aircraft, we had taxied out and were number 4

for takeoff. I was phoned by the Captain to tell me were going back to the gate as some

Hazmat cargo had been incorrectly loaded. After we had the issue resolved, had taken off,

and were at cruise I had time to ask the Captain what had happened. He told me that

when we were in line to take off, he had contacted the company for final weights, to be

told that they asked him to return to the gate. He said that he had not been notified at

any time to return to the gate. After further discussion he was told that some hazmat

cargo had not been loaded correctly and that it didn't have the required padding of

luggage surrounding it. I expressed my concern over the confusion as to whether they had

been told to return to the gate (he was adamant that he had not been told) and when and

how had the company been alerted to the cargo being incorrectly loaded after we had

already left the gate and had got so far. I was and am concerned as to how was the error

discovered, and why it happened in the first place?

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported the aircraft returned to the gate when the Captain was

advised some HazMat had been improperly loaded.

ACN: 1407181 (7 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611


Place



Environment

Light : Night

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X



Make Model Name : A321



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Cabin Lighting : Low

Component

Aircraft Component : Turbine Engine

Aircraft Reference : X

Problem : Malfunctioning

Person

Reference : 1





Qualification.Flight Attendant : Current






Events





Result.Flight Crew : Landed As Precaution


Assessments



Narrative: 1

Finished with service. [I] was sitting in jumpseat when I heard a very loud pop

(comparable to a gunshot sound). There was also a very strong shake. Immediately called

the lead flight attendant and she felt it as well and was calling the Captain. There was a

commuting pilot in the last row. He came to the back and tried calling the flight deck. He

proceeded to go up to the flight deck to help. There were flames coming out of the aircraft

right engine. We did a planned cabin prep. Diverted to [an alternate]. No evacuation was

necessary.

Synopsis

A321 Flight Attendant reported the aircraft diverted to an alternate airport after

experiencing engine problems.

ACN: 1407140 (8 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612


Place




Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Regional Jet 900 (CRJ900)



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Galley



Function.Flight Attendant : Flight Attendant In Charge




Events





Result.General : None Reported / Taken

Assessments



Narrative: 1

Our flight needed a security sweep. We were also waiting for groomers. Security sweep

guy came down borrowed my pen filled out a yellow sheet in the galley and left. Still

waiting for groomers. Groomers have to sign the security sheet. Gate agent comes down

and wants to board but I tell him still waiting for groomers. Gate agent calls 3 times for

groomers my Captain called for groomers. Nobody shows. Then the security guy comes

back and said security is done and groomers have been there. I said who did security? He

said he did. I said you never left the galley. You have to check seat pockets, overhead bins

etc. He said he did, I said no you didn't I was standing right here. So he went back and did

that. Then I said we still need groomers. He said they were already there and signed the

security sheet. I said no they weren't he said yes I said no. Back and forth we went, I said

to him we cleaned the cabin. Oh ok he said. Security complete. When he did check the

back he took my other FAs soda and cup cozy that was sitting by her bag, which made her

really mad. Finally we boarded and took off. They should have and could have done their

job and done it right.

Synopsis

CRJ-900 Flight Attendant reported that the person assigned to do the security check prior

to departure did not do it, but signed the security sheet indicating that it had been

accomplished. The aircraft cleaners needed to sign the sheet also, but never did show up.

ACN: 1406896 (9 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611


Place



Environment

Light : Night

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Flight Phase : Final Approach

Flight Phase : Landing

Airspace.Class B : ZZZ


Number Of Seats.Number : 128

Crew Size Flight Attendant.Number Of Crew : 5

Person

Reference : 1











Human Factors : Communication Breakdown

Communication Breakdown.Party1 : Flight Attendant

Communication Breakdown.Party2 : Flight Crew

Events







Assessments



Narrative: 1

During landing the Captain did an "all call" and asked if we smelled anything.

I being the "C" did advice that I smell some sort of "oil" smell. That was the best way that

I could identify it. I did experience lightheadedness earlier inflight however I just thought

it was from lack of enough water in addition to having a headache after landing. The entire

event went so quickly unfortunately there was/is not much more to report however I do

hope this helps.

Now in regards to the not knowing the Captain/Pilots names. With all the changes with our

beloved airline, unfortunately there is no way to know who they are in between flights

when they change with each leg, also there is no way we can reference it afterwards. Isn't

it in the passenger's and crew's best interest the Pilots stay with the crew for continuity

and safety?

I can't tell you how many flights and legs I've been on that there simply is not enough

time in between flights to find out who our fellow crewmembers are! How is this safe? We

are safety professionals and should there be an evacuation or some other emergency how

is it safe we do not even know their names? Does something catastrophic has to happen?

I hope this serves as some sort of "red flag" that since this merger and all the inevitable

changes, there is one that should have remained in place which is the pilots who

originated the flight stay with it.

Synopsis

A319 Flight Attendant reported an oily smell in the cabin.

ACN: 1406836 (10 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201612

Place


Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1









Human Factors : Situational Awareness

Human Factors : Workload

Human Factors : Distraction


Communication Breakdown.Party2 : Other

Events







Result.Flight Crew : Took Evasive Action

Result.Flight Crew : Became Reoriented

Assessments



Narrative: 1

Male passenger boarded aircraft first with a woman and a baby and immediately came to

the back of aircraft with big bag and backpack. Cleaning crew had just gotten off for

second time due to bringing us missing items for the aft lavs and I was going through

overhead bin at 38DEF and also had OH (Overhead) bin at 38ABC and 39ABC opened. The

male passenger tried to move past me and I asked him to please wait and that he could

store his belongings in the OH bin around rows 36 or 37 as there was no room because

those bins in 38 and 39 were full with emergency equipment, and supplies and crew

luggage. He then tried to pass by me, again and I asked him to please wait. At this time,

my flying partner was dealing with the caterers, door 2L was opened, there was no toilet

paper in the lavs and I needed to lock the OH bin at 38ABC. The male passenger then

asked me "Who do you work for?" I found this question strange but I answered him. He

then told me I should not be working for them, he did not like my face and said

"[expletive] you" to me.

I was flabbergasted, I did not know if I heard him correctly and then said "Excuse me,

what did you say?" and he said "I don't like your attitude, you're mean so [expletive]

you"! I told the passenger" do not use that language with me or onboard this plane ever

again". Then he took out his cell phone, said I was making his wife hold his baby too long

and he proceeded to take out his cell phone took my picture or either started videotaping

me with his cell phone. I told him to put the cell phone off of camera mode because I did

not authorize him to take my picture. He told me he could do whatever he wanted. My

flying partner then intervened and told him to stop with the camera as it was illegal to do

that and he would call the Captain. The male passenger became more flippant and sat

down. He kept looking in the OH bins at 38 and 39 as if we were not telling him the truth

about OH bin storage. Why he tried to go that far back is unbeknownst to me because he

was the first person on the plane and there was room for his big bag and overstuffed back

pack. He then tried to engage other passengers in his rant and rave about me and towards

me and then I got a call from the Purser. I relayed to the Purser what had happened and

that I felt threatened by the passenger's behavior and foul colorful language. Plus the fact

that he swore like that, with his baby present and specifically said he didn't like my face!

He taunted me and asked me for my name so I told him [title and first initial]. He then

said, "No, give me your real name!" At that point, I was called up to the FC (First Class)

cabin to meet with the customer service agent. He asked me what happened and I told

him what seat the passengers were in and he already knew who I was referencing because

he had issues with [this passengers] aggressiveness out in the gate area.

I then realized as I walked back to the back of the cabin that he was the same passenger

who almost hit me in the face with his big black oversized bag and big backpack out in the

gate area because he came into the flight attendant seating area and was bumping into

my luggage with his oversized bag as I sat in the chair at the gate.

The male Customer Service agent told me he had spoken with our Captain who advised

the CSR (Customer Service Representative) to remove the male passenger from the

aircraft. I never spoke with the female passenger but I noticed her telling [the disruptive

passenger] to be quiet.

I felt the security and safety of me, my crew and the passengers on board was at risk with

[the disruptive passenger] onboard due to his excessive foul language and extremely

combative behavior.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant reported an abusive, foul mouthed male passenger was removed from

the flight during boarding. The CSR stated he was disruptive even before boarding.

ACN: 1405475 (11 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611

Place




Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Person

Reference : 1








Events

Anomaly.Aircraft Equipment Problem : Less Severe






Assessments



Contributing Factors / Situations : Procedure


Narrative: 1

Still very concerned about the food holding temperatures for food on board the B737 with

no chiller and not kept on ice. On this segment, we had crew meals, consumed following

the service; about 3 hours after takeoff.

The main meal had a temperature reading of 69.6 degrees. The salad had a reading of

68.5 degrees.

I do not feel that food holding at these temperatures is safe for passengers or crew. Food

holding at these temperatures puts crew and passengers at risk of contracting food borne

illnesses.

If we are not to have chillers, I would like to see food kept cold with wet or dry ice.

On another flight, I took a sip of orange juice. It was warm and rancid tasting; I had to

spit it right out. This was juice we had on the cart and served to passengers. I took a

temperature reading and found it to be at 69.6 degrees. None of the orange juice boarded

in the aft galley was kept chilled on ice. OJ, milk and citrus were all boarded together in a

bin with no ice. This doesn't seem like a safe practice. The juice container specifies to keep

chilled.

Synopsis

B737 Flight Attendant reported concern with the food handling on aircraft not equipped

with chillers.

ACN: 1403760 (12 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : HNL.Airport

State Reference : HI


Environment

Light : Night

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Ground : HNL





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi

Cabin Lighting : High


Passengers On Board.Number : 176


Person

Reference : 1













Events



Anomaly.Ground Event / Encounter : Other / Unknown





Assessments



Narrative: 1

This flight was delayed two hours due to a late arriving aircraft. Everyone was in a hurry to

turn this as quick as possible. After we were done boarding they serviced the lavs. Then

we pushed back. On final cabin safety walk through to ensure all passengers are seat

belted and bag placement is correct, I was in the aisle near seat 13c when the aircraft

came to an abrupt and extremely hard stop, propelling me three rows up and I fell to the

aircraft floor landing on my right side. My right leg was wedged under the metal seat

frame. Passengers came to help me up but I asked them to wait a minute because I was

stuck and in severe pain at that moment. They did help me up and I went to my jump seat

to sit down. I was shaking and hurting but I got up to see how the A FA (Flight Attendant)

was. When we got to her galley she was on the ground and in severe pain. She stated she

felt like her arm was broken and she couldn't move her back. The paramedics met the

plane and placed her in a collar and took her off on a backboard.

Synopsis

B757 Flight Attendant reported several cabin crewmembers were injured when the aircraft

made a sudden stop while taxiing.

ACN: 1402601 (13 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611


Place

Locale Reference.ATC Facility : ZZZ.ARTCC


Environment

Light : Daylight

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X






Flight Plan : IFR






Component

Aircraft Component : Toilet Smoke, Overheat, Fire Detectors & Warning


Problem : Design

Person

Reference : 1





Function.Flight Attendant : Off Duty







Events






Detector.Automation : Aircraft Other Automation







Assessments





Narrative: 1

I was a jump seating attendant on flight. All crewmembers were in the aisle doing their

service and I was the only one in the aft galley. I heard 3 short bell/chime sounds and felt

I should investigate. I stood by the aft right lav and a passenger came out. I felt that the

sound had came from the lav, so I asked the passenger if he had been smoking and he

said that he had a vapor cigarette and that he had used it in the lav. I informed him that

they were banned from being used on the airplane and that he cannot use them. I went

into the lav and inspected all compartments to make sure the area was safe. I did not

smell any odor nor did I find any evidence. I notified the purser of the situation.

I am submitting this report due to the concern of function of the alarm. No one would have

never known that the passenger had used a prohibited item on the plane if I had not been

sitting on the jumpseat. No crewmember would ever be able to hear the weak alarm

sound. If this item is prohibited, shouldn't the alarm be audible as to notify crew members

that prohibited activity was occurring in the lavatory? Did this alarm perform normally or

should we be receiving a loud alarm when vapor cigarettes are being used?

Synopsis

A B737 jump seating Flight Attendant in the aft galley reported a faint sounding alarm and

discovered a passenger that has used a vapor cigarette in the lavatory. The Flight

Attendant found the lavatory safe, but wondered why the alarm had not sounded loudly.

ACN: 1402038 (14 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611

Place




Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Large Transport, Low Wing, 2 Turbojet Eng



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1












Events







Assessments




Narrative: 1

After the Main Cabin (MC) beverage service and pick up was complete FA4 (Flight

Attendant) called me (FA1) and notified me that [a] Passenger (PAX) did not return to the

aircraft after she deplaned during boarding. She had deplaned to retrieve her uncle's

medication from the security check point (located in main terminal). We departed,

requiring a tram ride from main terminal, where security is located. I was completely

unaware a passenger had deplaned during boarding--I was busy doing catering checks,

prepping galley, loading ovens, pre-departure beverages, making PA's etc. FA3 was

occupied hanging coats and serving the drinks. Boarding was going on this entire time.

FA4 stated she believed FA3 and I were aware a PAX had deplaned because boarding was

held up briefly for PAX to come forward through First Class to deplane. I was not aware of

this; FA2 stated he thought the passenger was coming forward to give a bag to the agent

for checking. He stated as the PAX rounded the closet with her bag he proceeded back

down the aisle to perform his duties so did not actually see the PAX deplane. Apparently

there was an agent at the door but I had zero awareness of any of these goings on. I was

task saturated. FA4 states she told PAX to take her carryon baggage and tell the agent

what she was doing.

Upon my awareness of the incident I spoke to the remainder of her traveling party. My

conversation with family confirmed [the] PAX had deplaned with carry on, she had

checked luggage, she did not return to aircraft, she returned to main terminal security

check point to retrieve [her uncle's] medication kit bag, and she did not make it back to

the plane. Family had been in text contact with her and their main concern was how would

she get out of ZZZ, what flight would she be on? When asked why they did not notify the

cabin crew that PAX had not returned before we left the gate [the uncle] said essentially

"we knew the plane would wait anyway." I said that may or may not be the case

depending on where she was in the process, but we really needed to account for her, for

security sake and for her sake and for your peace of mind. They were very kind and calm

about the incident, their only concern was how/when [she] would get to [destination].

I then briefed the Captain with all I knew of the incident. He was able to contact dispatch

and confirm that the PAX was #1 on the Stand By list for [another] flight, with that flight

showing 4 open seats at the time. I informed [the uncle]. They continued to text and

make positive contact at various times, to include upon landing.

Besides the obvious breach in procedure, potential security concerns, and anxiety for the

family-the Captain and I became concerned about how many souls we actually had on

board. At door close the agent first said 149. Then another agent came back down and

said 151, but didn't explain how/why it changed. Then door closed. So now...with PAX

deplaning and NOT returning...how many Souls On Board did we really have?

In retrospect I recalled an agent stating something to the effect of all the passengers

having made it "except for that one." I don't know if that is in reference to [the deplaning

PAX] or another revenue passenger who didn't make the flight.

A "time-out" to ensure all FAs are aware of what is happening- especially FA1 who is

ultimately responsible for ensuring procedure is properly followed. Boarding should have

been stopped- FA4 should have escorted the PAX and handed her off to me, or directly to

the agent who was standing by, but definitely brief me on the situation.

Communication. Slow down. Be deliberate. I feel awful about this event- I feel bad for the

family. I am terrified that I let this happen on my watch for the security implication of

such an incident. Thankful it had an innocent outcome, but I realize how serious it could

be. I have learned a great deal and will include this in my future preflight briefings with

my crews.

Also, if the plane had crashed...how many pairs of shoes ARE we looking for? That scares

me too. I don't know as anyone really knows and am beyond thankful that did not happen.

Ask the captain--I was shaken to the core about this for those very reasons and the

implications therein. The responsibility weighs heavy and I accept it completely. I feel

terrible for what happened and am thankful there were no worse outcomes than some

worry and inconvenience for the family. Lesson learned. Thank you.

Synopsis

An Air carrier Flight Attendant reported that she was notified by another Flight Attendant

that a passenger did not return to the aircraft after she deplaned during boarding.

ACN: 1401624 (15 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611

Place


Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1



Cabin Activity : Deplaning






Events






Assessments



Primary Problem : Company Policy

Narrative: 1

During deplaning, a child became very ill. Because the pilots working this flight had turned

off the power to the aircraft, the flight attendants in the back were unable to seek

assistance from the flight attendants in the front. There was no power for the interphone

or PA system to work. A flight attendant had to jump over seat backs to get to the front of

the cabin to obtain Universal Precaution Kit and request assistance. It is my understanding

that it is standard procedure for the pilots to do this. It is extremely unsafe when there are

passengers on board. If this had been an unwarranted evacuation or a heart attack, we

would have no way to seek help.

Synopsis

Flight Attendant reported a very sick child in the back of the aircraft during deplaning, but

they could not contact the forward Flight Attendant because the power had been turned off

by the flight crew. Climbing over seats was the only solution.

ACN: 1400778 (16 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611


Place




Environment

Light : Dusk

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Ground : ZZZ


Make Model Name : Regional Jet 200 ER/LR (CRJ200)



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi

Person : 1

Reference : 1






Person : 2

Reference : 2


Location In Aircraft : Flight Deck


Function.Flight Crew : Captain

Function.Flight Crew : Pilot Flying

Qualification.Flight Crew : Air Transport Pilot (ATP)


Events







Assessments



Narrative: 1

Four passengers were seated in row 8, exit row. 8A, 8B and 8C appeared to be traveling

together.

During my briefing of the exit row passengers the three men traveling together were a

little boisterous. 8A told me he wasn't willing and able to assist. Then said he was after I

told him I would relocate him. I think he was trying to be humorous.

After we began to taxi out to the runway the passengers in 8A and 8B stood up. I started

to reach for my phone to make a PA but then 8A started walking aft. I went back and

asked what he was doing and he said "I am going to [the bathroom]!" I asked if he could

wait because we were going to be taking off very soon. He got louder and said "No, I have

to [go to the bathroom]. I am going to [the bathroom]". It was at that point I became

suspicious that he may be intoxicated. I asked him if he had been drinking. He said no but

at the same time the passenger in 8D who was not traveling with them said "yes!" Then

he again stated that he was "going to [the bathroom]" so I told him OK and that I would

let the Captain know so we would stop taxi and wait.

I looked at his friends and 8B said "he isn't drunk". 8C said "he is just [a jerk]". And 8B

said "he is a [jerk]. He is like this all the time".

I called the Captain (CA) and advised him of the situation. The CA told me we were going

to be going into a 20-minute ground delay but that he would make a PA asking all to be

seated. The man from 8A came out of the lavatory. The Captain made an announcement

asking everybody to be seated. But the man from 8A continued to stand in the aisle in row

8.

I again went back to row 8 and asked what was going on and he was very hostile and

raised his voice and told me "You need to know that if you EVER tell me I cannot [go to

the bathroom] again, if you EVER tell me I can't then I will STAND UP! I will STAND UP for

every person on this airplane...". I noticed this time he was slurring his words. By

"standing up" he meant stand up for himself and not physically stand up. I felt intimidated

by his behavior and felt that he was threatening me. I was afraid that if I would have to

ask him to buckle his seat belt or anything else that he might lose further control or "stand

up" so I walked away from them and went back forward. Keep in mind that I also never

told him that he could not use the lavatory and that he did use it.

I called the Captain and advised him I felt unsafe with this passenger and that he was

threatening and slurring and did not think it was safe to continue with him onboard. We

discussed it a bit as this was not a decision taken lightly.

We went back to the gate and law enforcement came on along with two station personnel.

The officer told the man to come with him so they could have a chat in the jet way. As the

man was being escorted off one of the station personnel blocked me in the galley so I was

not in view of the passenger. I could not hear the conversation in the jet way and the

passenger was removed from the flight.

We closed the door and taxied back out. During my beverage service passengers seated in

2D, 7C, 7D, 8D and 9D all told me that they were glad the passenger was removed. The

passengers in 7C and 7D told me they were getting nervous with him sitting behind them.

They said when I was up front he was saying a lot of things that made them

uncomfortable.

As we were deplaning, two more passengers stopped to tell the Captain and me that we

handled the situation well and thanked us for not letting him continue on their flight.

Finally the man who had been sitting [near] them told us that he saw all three of them

drinking minis that they snuck onto the plane themselves but that the other two settled

down after their companion was removed.

The passengers who had been traveling with him were compliant with regulations during

the flight and also apologized for their companion as they deplaned the aircraft.

Narrative: 2

[Report narrative contained no additional information.]

Synopsis

CRJ-200 Captain and Flight Attendant reported an intoxicated and belligerent passenger

was removed from the flight when they returned to the gate.

ACN: 1399360 (17 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201611

Place

Locale Reference.ATC Facility : ZZZZ.ARTCC

State Reference : FO

Altitude.MSL.Single Value : 10000

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Flight Phase : Climb

Component

Aircraft Component : Exterior Pax/Crew Door



Person

Reference : 1









Events





Assessments



Narrative: 1

Shortly after 10,000 feet on departure the door at 1L began making a very loud

'screaming' siren like noise. I notified the cockpit. They determined that since we were

maintaining internal pressure inside the aircraft it was a door seal failure. They contacted

maintenance and then told me nothing could be done. They suggested I stuff garbage

bags around the door to stifle the noise. No help. The pilots said they could hear the noise

in the cockpit and in their bunkroom. They refused to come downstairs to listen to the

noise despite my pleas that they could not fully appreciate the unbearable sound unless

they heard it for themselves. They tried several altitudes to see if that would quiet the

noise. No help. The noise continued for the entire flight. It was like sitting next to a police

car siren for 9 HOURS! Three flight attendants experienced headaches and ringing in their

ears. The noise did not stop until we were on final approach.

Synopsis

B747 Flight Attendant reported an extremely loud squeal coming from the 1L door during

climb and reported it to the pilots. There were no door warnings or pressurization

problems and the flight continued to destination.

ACN: 1398422 (18 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201610

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : B737-700


Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Galley Furnishing



Person

Reference : 1






Events





Assessments



Narrative: 1

Upon preparing the galley for arrival, I was stowing items in [a] compartment below oven

in back galley. We were in turbulence and the compartment door was inop. It didn't retract

and stay. It was flapping. My hand moved inside compartment and it was "fish hooked" to

wire spring that was sticking out underneath compartment door. The spring wasn't visible

from the outside of the compartment door. Therefore, after calling for medical personnel

and an aircraft mechanic, I was forced to land standing in galley with my hand lodged

underneath the compartment. Both the medical personnel onboard and the mechanic were

unsuccessful in assisting with the release of my hand. EMTs and mechanics boarded in

[destination airport] and finally, my hand was released from the compartment door.

Synopsis

B737-700 Flight Attendant reported that her hand was impaled by a wire spring inside a

galley compartment. It took medical personnel and a Mechanic to release her hand after

arrival at destination.

ACN: 1397234 (19 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201610


Environment

Light : Night

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Nav In Use : GPS



Cabin Lighting : Medium




Person

Reference : 1

















Events








Assessments





Narrative: 1

Shortly after takeoff flight attendant 1 (forward cabin area) called to the aft cabin where

flight attendant 2 (reporter) and flight attendant 4 assigned jump seats are located to

inquire about the strong odor she was experiencing in her cabin area. Flight attendant 1

reported that the odor was so strong that she was beginning to feel dizzy along with a

headache. Flight attendant 1 also reported that passengers in her cabin area was also

experiencing negative physical symptoms from the odor. Flight attendant 2 and flight

attendant 4 moved into the cabin to further assess the cabin and passengers. As we

approached the forward cabin the odor was strong and a few passengers complained of

negative physical symptoms such as a headache or a persistent cough.

Flight attendant 1 contacted the Captain who said that they did not have any emergency

indicator, therefore decided to recycle the air-conditioning. The process transferred the

odor to the aft section of the cabin. We once again reported to the Captain of the strong

odor who stated that when the aircraft flies through a cloud the odor will increase with

additional verbiage that the reporter did not understand. The Captain also attempted to

place the decision on the cabin crew as to whether the odor was critical to return to the

original destination or to continue which the cabin crew refused to accept because the type

of odor was unclear to make such a decision. The reporter asked every passenger if they

were experiencing physical discomfort to which most reported 'no'.

During the 2 ½ hour flight the odor was faint, but present. Cabin crew remained diligent

monitoring passengers for any sign of distress. Upon descent the odor was extremely

strong in the aft cabin. The reporter experienced an itchy throat along with a headache at

the termination of flight route.

Synopsis

A321 Flight Attendant reported dizziness and a headache from strong forward cabin odor

which the aft flight attendant detected also. The odor decreased, but returned strongly

during descent.

ACN: 1396748 (20 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201610


Place




Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1









Events






When Detected : Pre-flight


Assessments





Narrative: 1

A disabled passenger would not place her backpack underneath the seat in front of her

during taxi, take off, and landing. The backpack was needed to support her legs, as her

legs did not reach the ground.

The two passengers taking care of her told me the backpack absolutely could not be

moved, as the weight of her legs needed to be supported. The caretaker asked me if we

had any means of properly supporting her legs, and that it was the airline's responsibility

to accommodate for all disabled passengers. We continued to go over their briefing as how

we could assist in an emergency. However before they fly again, something needs to be

arranged to support her legs but not block the aisle and break the FAA carry on

requirements.

More communication between the passenger, Customer Service Agent, and Flight

Attendant. The passenger did not tell us until we were doing our final cabin preparations

for takeoff, that the bag could not be moved from blocking the aisle.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant on a B737-800 reported that a disabled passenger refused to stow a

backpack because it was being used as a leg support.

ACN: 1395665 (21 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201610


Place


Aircraft

Reference : X


Person

Reference : 1

Location Of Person : Company





Human Factors : Fatigue

Events





Assessments





Narrative: 1

I checked in for a [late afternoon flight] that I acknowledged the night before. Because of

the late afternoon/early evening check in, I went to sleep at my normal time of XA30. I

woke the next morning at XAam, prepared my normal day and routine to check in for work

at XI55. When I checked in the crewroom to scheduling, I was given a 2 segment redeye.

The final segment was to land the following morning at XA18 am. I indicated I had not

prepared for a redeye and would be up for over 25 hrs when the last segment ended the

following morning. I did not feel safe to be up all night and carry out my duties due to

improper notification that I would have all night flying.

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported receiving a reassignment that would have had her

awake for 25 hours before the final arrival.

ACN: 1393996 (22 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201610

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1








Events







Assessments



Narrative: 1

The crew rest curtain at door 1L, when stowed, covers the 2 emergency oxygen bottles

and makes that compartment impossible to open and inspect your emergency equipment.

Also it restricts [and] diminishes the space to stand in case of an emergency. When the

curtain is opened/extended it makes all emergency equipment inaccessible, especially the

jumpseat and firefighting equipment, and the flashlight. This violates FAR 121.309: All

emergency equipment must be clearly identifiable and READILY accessible to the crew,

and FAR 121.310; flashlights must be accessible from each flight attendant seat.

Synopsis

B777 Flight Attendant reported possible FAR deviations from emergency equipment access

standards at door 1L.

ACN: 1389509 (23 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201609

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Large Transport



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person : 1

Reference : 1









Person : 2

Reference : 2









Events







Assessments




Narrative: 1

Discovered passenger seated in [near rear cabin] with his genitals exposed and alerted

flight attendant C for assistance. This passenger was an aisle chair passenger and I

assembled the onboard wheelchair and brought it to seat. The passenger was very frail

and had been sleeping and slumped over most of the flight, he couldn't shift onto the

chair. Flight attendant B transferred the passenger onto the chair and we took him back to

the lavatory. I had to assist lifting the passenger to his feet with the C flight attendant.

The C flight attendant then had to back him into the lavatory and lower him onto the toilet

because the passenger didn't have the strength to use the assist bar.

He should not have been allowed to travel without assistance and asking a non-rev

employee to sit across from him was not enough. I should not have to lift a passenger and

I felt I had no say in his boarding because of the supervisor push that he had already

traveled from Boston and he was cleared by Medlink. He was slumped over and very frail

even in the boarding area and I wonder if Medlink was aware of all the medicines he was

taking because he had a garbage bag full in his suitcase.

We spent most of the flight checking if he was still breathing. He was extremely frail and

slumped over sleeping most of the flight. He clearly needed someone to administer his

numerous medications and keep him hydrated. I wonder if Medlink was aware of all his

medication and all the travel, 10 plus hours, he was planning. The Nurse Practitioner

stated he had Parkinson's, AIDS and something I can't recall. He didn't eat, drink, or take

any of his scheduled medicine and was barely responsive. He did perk up a bit when we

put him on oxygen.

Narrative: 2

Passenger was boarded in an aisle chair, is completely non-ambulatory, having a severe

mobility disability, and was traveling without an attendant. Although the crew checked on

him often, [he] was unresponsive, and sat with his head slumped forward for the first four

and a half hours of the flight. During our final service, approximately an hour prior to our

arrival, we discovered [him] exposed, with his shorts around his ankles, and agitated. We

surmised, correctly, that [he] needed to visit the lavatory. Without the required attendant

present on the flight, I had no choice but to transfer [him] to the inflight wheelchair, and

from the wheelchair to the lavatory, and to assist him in the lavatory, all in direct violation

of company policy as outlined in the flight attendant manual.

Had [he] been traveling with an attendant, as is required of those passengers with a

severe mobility disability, it would not have been necessary for me to violate company

policy to assist him. There was intense pressure from the station to allow [him] to travel

on our flight, with much emphasis made in the fact that he had already traveled on

[another Company] flight earlier in the day. My mistake was in not pointing out before

departure that an attendant was required. As a crew, all of the flight attendants, and the

pilots should have slowed down the process enough to communicate, and make a better

decision.

Synopsis

Air carrier flight attendants reported having to care for a passenger who had several

incapacitating medical problems, but was allowed to travel alone.

ACN: 1388303 (24 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201609


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : BNA.Airport

State Reference : TN

Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Oxygen System/Portable


Problem : Improperly Operated

Person

Reference : 1








Human Factors : Confusion






Communication Breakdown.Party2 : Ground Personnel

Events








Assessments





Narrative: 1

While doing the first beverage service, I noticed a passenger in 12B on O2. As I was

contemplating asking if he needed to use his concentrator during all phases of the flight, I

checked my manifest and noticed he wasn't even listed as having an O2 concentrator. As I

was about to ask him a question or two, the passenger in 13B asked me if his (12B) O2

bottle ran out, would we have O2 bottles for him to use on board. I almost chuckled as I

said "he's not using O2 from a bottle, it's an O2 concentrator, but we have no info about it

even being on board." She replied that he indeed was using an O2 bottle as he has lung

cancer and only 25% use of one of his lungs. I must have had a very odd look on my face

as I said "but he can't bring his own O2 bottle on board an aircraft, totally not allowed!"

"How did you get past the TSA?" She said they discovered the bottle, took it, checked it

out, and returned it saying it was okay. My comment was "they what?" "So, no one else

was informed that you had this and intended to use it on the plane? Turn it off please,

now." I went and retrieved one of our Portable Oxygen Bottles (POBs) and asked the D

flight attendant to tell the A flight attendant to notify the flight deck. The passenger in 13B

was the girlfriend of the passenger in 12B. She also told me he has used his own POB on

many other flights before. She didn't say which airline.

Being the C flight attendant, I'm not allowed to be forward of the exit rows for boarding,

nor would I leave my cabin area of responsibility prior to takeoff. After takeoff, I'm setting

up my cart as the B and D flight attendants are [completing other service duties]. So, not

sure how I could have done anything different due to my position. Had I been working a

position where I would have seen Mr. [12 B] on what I would have assumed was an O2

concentrator, I would have looked at my manifest to see if he was listed as using one. I

would have then asked him if he needed to use it during all phases of flight including

takeoff and landing, where I may have asked to move him to a window seat so as not to

block/hamper other passengers egress to the main aisle in an emergency. That exchange

most likely would have brought about a discovery of an O2 bottle and not a concentrator.

I think lesson #1 is never assume a darn thing! Many passengers are not aware they need

to disclose plans to use an O2 concentrator and I have watched them come onboard only

to discover they aren't listed on my manifest. I then have time to contact an agent to see

if they are aware of it and it just hasn't showed up on my manifest yet. I strongly suggest

all flight attendants be very aware of passengers using O2 and watch for the device when

passengers are boarding, then verify we all know about it. None of that would have

mattered in this instance as his O2 bottle was concealed in a small black oblong bag.

Boarding an aircraft is a crazy busy time for all concerned. All the more reason to be alert

then, as well as any time after takeoff, to things like a passengers using (what should only

be) an O2 concentrator and checking to make sure they are listed in our manifest or the

proper tag has been placed on it by our agents.

Synopsis

Flight Attendant reported discovering a lung cancer patient inhaling oxygen from a

personal bottle not listed on the manifest. The bottle was turned off and replaced with an

onboard bottle.

ACN: 1387761 (25 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201609


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X






Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger




Person

Reference : 1









Events







Assessments



Narrative: 1

This passenger came on very late; as all the overhead bins were closed, I opened one for

him, so he could put his large trekking type back pack at row 18/19, because he was

sitting nearby. I said, "Sir, here is a place you can place your bag." He then kind of swung

it my way, as if I was to take it from him. I said, "No, Sir, place in here (pointing)," as he

seemed just a bit off agitated, or just frustrated coming on late, and I thought he was late

or flying on a pass, as we were preparing the cabin for departure (not thinking he could be

detained, and a last minute decision about his behavior/or intoxication and whether or not

he should be allowed to fly).

I am not aware of this, but after speaking to a witness, who came forward later after the

disturbance, who stated she was harassed by Passenger X, I am wondering if that is why

he was so late getting on. He also seemed a bit disheveled, but that is the only contact I

had with him until the second/follow on service. I suspect that something happened in

flight; either he had his own alcohol or used drugs, as he was only served one beer by

flight attendant #3, I believe. The next time I had any communications with Passenger X,

was when I was trying to serve the passengers on the opposite of side of him and he kept

on; in an obvious slurred speech in an aggressive tone; "I want her to get me a drink!" He

was extremely rude, impatient, and bordering belligerent. I didn't know if he had some

physical problems or if he was intoxicated. At every request on the ABC side, I turned and

said, "Just a minute, I will be on this side next." I repeated and kindly stated over and

over, "Sir, it will be just a minute." When it was his turn, he was almost inaudible and

moving around saying "Get me a drink, I want a High Can!" It was so hard to understand

him, and I was trying to see this is the way he talks, or is he intoxicated. I said, "You want

a Heineken Beer, right?" As I remember seeing another beer that he had before (different

brand), so I know he had at least one. I asked him if he had, had any alcohol before the

flight, and again; slurred speech, agitated movement. "He grumbled at me, "NO, NO, I

hadn't had no alcohol, NO NO!" With this remark, he appeared intoxicated, as I had not

thought of drug use before, but what alarmed me, he had cigarettes on his tray table. I

asked, "Sir, are you are aware that you cannot smoke at any time on the flight anywhere?

Yeah, (again slurred, gruff, and agitated speech) I know, I know, I fly every day, every

day!" Like he wanted to hurt me with his words...a little startling. At some time, he pulls

out a large wad of cash with large bills, when I am debating as I have the beer in my

hand. Sir, you do know, since you fly so often, you cannot pay with cash, you can only pay

with a credit card.

At this time, he takes his credit card that apparently he had in his hand, an pushes it

towards my face and says, "SEE I HAVE A CREDIT CARD, SEE, SEE!" and repeats his

words over and over. Now he is belligerent, and starts a scene and I get into my

authoritative tone and say, "Do not be rude to a crew member, you need to calm down!" I

repeated these words; and he started mocking me over and over. At this point I went up

front to TRY and explain the situation, but I am not able to very well, as the FA#1 only

wants to hear a part of what has taken place, but at least he is not cowering away like

most. I said, "In good conscious, I cannot serve any one who appears intoxicated but I

need for you to wait I need to finish." I tried to explain, and told him that he also has a

pack of cigarettes out which is another concern if he plans to...and off FA1 goes. I

continued the service with #2, and I could hear a bit what was going on, and FA1 asking

him as I did, if he would put those away so all would feel comfortable about it, but this

request continued and continued...I heard "because I asked you to so nicely." I later

learned that Passenger X threatened to punch out FA1.

FA# 3 came up to me, as she was picking up behind the cart, and she says, he wants to

go to the bathroom and we both said, "We cannot send him up towards the cockpit, not

like this; intoxicated, and if he has those cigarettes. Then I see Passenger X coming up

staggering towards me with his iPhone yelling and ranting in the aisle. As we were trying

to finish at row 25-30 the last drinks, and his saying; I am recording you. Yelling this:

"They won't let me go to the bathroom, I am recording you, as he talks in the phone

saying: "They won't let me go to the bathroom!" I told him to calm down, and with my

international stop sign, said to stop recording; it is a violation and repeated to stop, and

that his phone needs to be in airplane mode (don't ask me why I said that, but anything at

this point), and it is a Federal violation (as he would not comply after repeated requests). I

said, calm down, and sit down, as we will be out of the way soon. I twice requested to the

#2 that we get this cart out of the aisle now, as I was concerned for my safety and the

passengers, "Let's move it now, the red wine can wait, we will get that later!" Get the cart

out of the aisle, he is coming this way, quickly. As soon as we got the cart out of the way,

Passenger X sat down. I had spoken to one of the two men who were kind enough to block

the aisle to the cockpit, as he asked can we get the marshal to assist or any on board. We

did not have one, so it helped having them in the aisle, so that Passenger X did not

proceed toward the cockpit, as I noted what they were doing. I asked to repeat the same

if this passenger continues this irrational behavior, or tries to go to the cockpit.

We waited and he would not come back, so a passenger stated you need to go tell him

that the cart is out of the way, because he may claim racism. I explained that I believe I

need for him to calm down before I approach him, at this point, but we will get to that.

She volunteered as she said he had been nice to HER in the terminal area, and I said, I

will be right here (close proximity), if she feels comfortable. (This is interesting, as we

have volunteers who gave their name about how Passenger X harassing them in the

terminal as mentioned, and there was an extreme difference in the two ages). This female

passenger approached him and I stood three rows behind; not in view. She said, "Oh, he

seems so remorseful." Passenger X never came to the back restrooms, so I asked a

passenger who is a [company] mechanic (same race) if he could identify himself as a

[company] employee, and see if he would need to use the restroom, as I felt that he

would be an approachable, not someone with a uniform on. He came to us, and said; "He

is definitely intoxicated, and he said he is Okay, doesn't need to go to the restroom." #2

and I discussed the fact that not until the cart was past his seat did he need to go to the

restroom, and #2 stated that he remembers on the first service he made us move the cart

for him.

When I tried to tell the Captain the situation in the aft area; I noted FA1 interrupting, so I

let him speak, he would let me go ahead and he would talk over me, so I am sure the

Captain got partial, but the Captain was aware there was definitely a disturbance and I

was most involved. The one thing that was asked, "Do you think it is necessary to have

the police meet the flight met?" Yes, of course, and said why; Level one, the filming, the

violations, belligerent behavior, intoxication, and now I believe drug use. I know the

disturbance form was given to him, and I knew FA1 had been threatened, and it was a

definite need to have the police meet the flight, however; I was NEVER expecting that the

police would refuse to take my statement. I had not even gotten off the plane before the

Customer Service Manager wanted it closed out; the Captain/and two flight attendants

stated they were not pressing charges and the Captain knew, and the #1 and #3 that I

was involved. FA1 heard my conversation, at least what I was trying to state; of the

threats the intimidation and the violations in back. The Captain knew I was most involved,

so to not to take my statement insults my needs, and possibly my civil rights. I was told

by the police and TSA that I cannot press charges, as we have already closed out the

incident, and we have released him to go to the next flight.

We learned, as I was having a conversation with the police, since I was most insistent of

having my statement taken and not be totally disregarded, as I was the most involved. I

was only given a form with phone numbers that do not even work, however; it did provide

me with the necessary information, as this man was not right (call it instinct) and no one

wanted to listen. The Captain stated the reason he did not press charges, is that he would

have to call the FBI. The #3 said, "She is used to her children saying [slur]!" and the 2

year flight attendant, FA1 appeared happy, but thought Passenger X was not going to be

able to go to his next flight, I may have misunderstood but that is what I thought he said,

and that was not the case at all. Passenger X was allowed to go to his next flight to cause

another disturbance on his flight. Police were called away and someone asked, "Is this for

the same man?" It MOST certainly was, so Passenger X we learned was removed from that

flight and [company] gave him a voucher for a hotel, and rebooked him the next day.

Synopsis

Flight Attendant reported encountering an apparently intoxicated and belligerent

passenger during inflight service. The passenger was restricted from flying on his next

segment.

ACN: 1385252 (26 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201608


Person : 1

Reference : 1







Person : 2

Reference : 2






Events


Anomaly.Deviation - Altitude : Excursion From Assigned Altitude


Detector.Person : Flight Crew





Assessments



Narrative: 1

A passenger came to the aft galley and asked me for a cup of coffee. I went to the back

counter and poured him a cup. As I turned to hand it to him the cup there was a jolt and

the plane dropped. I hit the ceiling with my head, I landed by the center aft jump seat.

Flight Attendant X was partway in the center aft left jump seat, while the passenger I was

getting the coffee for landed next to me close to the center right jump seat. Flight

Attendant X tried to hold onto me and the passenger also tried grabbing on to me. The

aircraft jolted again and dropped. I flew to the ceiling again, hitting it with my head. I

clearly remember seeing cups of water, juice, wine bottles ice buckets flying to the ceiling

with me. As I was falling to the floor, the plane dropped yet again. I hit the ceiling again,

with my body this time, then landed on my posterior and left hand. My uniform was

soaked with all the liquids that were flying around the galley with me. The plane continued

shaking. I could hear passengers screaming and crying. I could hear a Flight Attendant (I

am assuming it was FA Y since she was the only FA in that part of the cabin) yelling for

passengers to fasten their seat belts and to sit down and hold on. Prior to this severe

turbulence it was completely smooth.

The passenger that I had been getting the cup of coffee for was able to make it to a

passenger seat near Flight Attendant Y. He noticed she was injured and helped apply

pressure to her lacerated scalp. After the turbulence had subsided I attempted to stand. I

had pain in my bottom and lower back along with pain in my left wrist. When I moved my

left wrist there was a grinding sensation. FA X helped me to sit in the center jump seat.

Flight Attendant Y came to the aft galley. She was covered in blood. I noticed blood

gushing from her scalp. FA X grabbed some gauze and applied pressure. The galley was a

"wreck". The floor was covered in liquids of all kinds, plastic glasses, coffee cups, ice, pick

up trays, wine and water bottles and coffee supplies. Some of the carriers were shaken out

of their storage spots. My first reaction was to start cleaning up the galley (at this point it

was a safety hazard with liquid and items covering the floor). Upon standing it was clear

my back was in pain and bending over was near impossible. FA Y also wanted to start

cleaning and checking on passengers. She was "covered" in blood and wanted to change

her shirt. She was worried about "scaring the children". It was clear to FA X that neither I

nor FA Y should be up. He made us sit in the aft center jumpseats while he started first aid

on both of us.

Captain came to the aft galley to check on us; he had just left the flight deck for his break

when the turbulence hit. He checked on our injuries and helped FA X start first aid on mine

and FA Y injuries. He helped me remove my rings on my injured hand and started icing it.

He told me there was no way I could continue on duty and that I should go take the pilot

rest seat. I stayed in the pilot rest seat until I was removed from the aircraft by the

paramedics and transported to the hospital.

I have asked myself several times what I could have done to change the outcome; I

honestly cannot come up with anything differently. I do feel that several things were done

correctly and the outcome would have been much worse without these "best practices". All

the carts were secured. I shudder to think what would have happened if we had been

using the carts as extra counter space to "stage supplies". Items out on the counters were

at a minimum. I also believe that the full size wine bottles being plastic was an important

safety issue. I have no way of describing the force that of what transpired in the cabin. If

those wine bottles would have been glass, not only would we have had broken glass

covering the galley it would have been similar to having hammers flying around during the

turbulence.

Narrative: 2

In midflight at night, passengers sleeping, seat belt sign off, sudden severe unexpected

clear air turbulence. I was standing by 1L, grabbed hand hold, and held on then sat in 1L

jumpseat until safe to get up. Checked on first class passengers and crew. When relieved I

checked on coach passengers and crew helped to calm passengers and assisted FA X to

help FA Z. Also the FA Z, FA X and I, were supposed to be deadheading in our seats with

our seatbelts on and all 3 of us were converted to work which was not needed or required.

Synopsis

Two B767 flight attendants reported an encounter with clear air turbulence and the

injuries that resulted. The flight diverted to take care of the injured flight attendants and

passengers.

ACN: 1382450 (27 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201608


Place

Locale Reference.ATC Facility : ZFW.ARTCC

State Reference : TX

Environment

Weather Elements / Visibility : Turbulence

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Center : ZFW





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Airspace.Class A : ZFW

Person

Reference : 1












Events






Assessments




Narrative: 1

I was deadheading on the aft jumpseat, watching the FA's working on the cart about a

third of the way down the coach aisle. The moderate chop had started to get worse, and I

was wondering if they would be able to finish the service. The number 1 FA later told me

that she had called the cockpit and asked to have the FA's sit down, but that the pilots told

her that we were almost out of the turbulence. A few minutes later, the turbulence got

worse, so she made the PA for the FAs to sit down. The two aisle FAs made it to the aft

galley, when suddenly the plane dropped dramatically. The number 4 FA seemed to have

found a handhold near the galley, so she didn't go flying, but the number 2 FA flew up

high in the air, his body parallel to the aisle. There was a second, even more severe drop

immediately afterward, and he flew up again, this time higher than the seatbacks, and

came down very hard. He didn't move for a while, which scared me, but the turbulence

was so bad, I was afraid to leave my jumpseat. After a while, he limped to the jumpseat

next to me, in obvious pain. Once the turbulence subsided, I made him an icepack. This

was the worst turbulence I have experienced in my 31 year career. Many people were

screaming, a man got a small cut on his arm when the cart went airborne and the teenage

UM in the last row was very frightened. The number 2 FA became a helpless projectile in

the cabin, with nothing but an airborne cart to hold on to. It was an image I will never

forget.

Many times in the last few years, I have thought about the decline in communication

between the cockpit and the flight attendants regarding turbulence. We used to be called

about turbulence much more often than we are now. Even when unexpected turbulence

occurred, we would get a call asking us how we were, and letting us know approximately

how much longer we could expect rough air. Not so much anymore. Many times lately I've

sat in the back of a 777, with turbulence so bad the carts were falling over, and we never

heard a word from the pilots. It made us feel forgotten, unimportant and expendable. Just

last week after takeoff, we experienced such bad turbulence that we were holding on to

the handholds in the FC galley, scared to death. It was so bad that we couldn't even let go

with one hand to get into the jumpseats we were leaning against. Both of us have over 30

years flying experience, and are used to turbulence, but this event was so severe, our

hands were shaking for about ten minutes afterwards. When I later spoke to the pilots

about it, they just kind of shrugged and seemed very unconcerned. These observations

are general. There are many great pilots who are proactive, team-oriented and concerned

for our safety. It's just that there seems to be a large increase in the number of pilots who

are not so aware of the conditions we are experiencing on the other side of the cockpit

door. Cameras in the cabin might help convey the seriousness of some of the turbulence

we experience, but mainly, I think there needs to be more communication between the

crew members. We in the cabin are flying blind, so to speak, and are almost always

unsecured in a part of the aircraft that experiences much worse turbulence than the

cockpit.

Synopsis

A deadheading Flight Attendant reported an encounter with turbulence that occurred

during cabin service. One of the flight attendants was injured. The reporter lamented the

lack of communication between the pilots and flight attendants before and after the

incident.

ACN: 1382136 (28 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201608

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Final Approach

Person

Reference : 1











Events


Anomaly.Inflight Event / Encounter : Unstabilized Approach

Anomaly.Inflight Event / Encounter : Object




Result.Flight Crew : Executed Go Around / Missed Approach

Assessments


Primary Problem : Procedure

Narrative: 1

While having a very rough approach the pilots did a go around and hit the right wing on

something. We had no communication with the flight deck. Then made a PA "we had a

uncontrolled approach and we're going around we'll be on the ground soon". We felt that

we should've had some communication if there was anything wrong with the plane or what

happened. I felt that there was a severe lack of CRM. We as a FA team planned on the

worst. With no communication we were left in the dark to what was going on. I feel that

better CRM from the flight deck would've helped us calm the passengers that were for a

better term freaking out. I feel it was us versus them (pilots). We need to know what

happened and why.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant reported while having a very rough approach the pilots did a go-around

and something hit the right wing. The flight attendants did not have any communication

with the flight deck.

ACN: 1382115 (29 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201608


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Large Transport, Low Wing, 2 Turbojet Eng



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Person

Reference : 1








Events

Anomaly.Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event : Other / Unknown





Assessments




Narrative: 1

I was in my boarding position at the OWWE (Over Wing Window Exit) and a couple with an

8 year old boy tried to sit in the OWWE. I explained the criteria for sitting in the OWWE.

The family asked a woman seated in a row directly in front of the OWWE to sit in the

OWWE because they wanted to sit in her row. The woman was hesitant about sitting in the

exit row. She stated, I'm not strong enough. No, I don't want to sit in an exit. She was

about to walk away from the exit row and choose another seat. A non rev pilot seated

directly behind the exit told the woman to sit in the OWWE. I informed the woman if she

felt she wasn't able to assist in an emergency and didn't feel comfortable with the

responsibilities of sitting in an exit row she would have to take another seat. Immediately,

the non rev pilot seated behind the exit row told the woman to sit in the exit row. He told

her its okay because he would help her if there was an emergency and he will open the

window. The pilot violated FARS and the policy. I told him he couldn't do that.

The woman sat in the exit row as directed by the non rev pilot. Again, I told the woman if

she didn't feel comfortable with the responsibilities, she can't sit in the OWWE. She looked

at the non rev pilot and he gave his approval. I briefed all passengers in the OWWE after

everyone was seated. The woman stated she was willing to assist when I asked for a

verbal response from each passenger. I informed the Captain of the incident. He told me

to reseat the woman that initially did not feel strong enough or comfortable sitting in the

exit row. I reseated the woman in a non-exit row seat prior to takeoff.

Non rev employees should be reminded not to interfere with working crew member's

duties and not violate policies and FARS.

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported a couple with a young child attempted to sit in the

emergency exit row. The couple wished to change places with a woman in the row in front,

but she declined due to not being strong enough. A deadheading pilot told the woman to

sit in the exit row and he would help if it became necessary against policy. The lady was

reseated prior to takeoff at the Captain's direction.

ACN: 1380984 (30 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger






Component

Aircraft Component : Air Conditioning Distribution System



Person

Reference : 1













Human Factors : Time Pressure



Events











Result.General : Release Refused / Aircraft Not Accepted


Assessments



Narrative: 1

Upon entering aircraft, the entire cabin crew and flight deck crew smelled a mixture of

pungent odors of fuel, fish, and kerosene/paint thinner. The crew assumed it was an

outside odor that would dissipate since the rear door and forward doors were open. Within

10 minutes of the boarding process, many first class customers complained of either a

headache or nausea symptoms from the odors. In addition, a few of the customers seated

in the rear of the aircraft and all four cabin crew members also began feeling symptoms of

headaches, nausea, and throat dryness. Once the Captain was notified of all complaints,

he immediately asked for the gate agents to deplane all onboard customers and crew

members.

Paramedics examined one crew member and believed the crew had no significant illness

emergency treatment. However, the cabin crew was taken to a facility for baseline blood

and pulmonary testing. The cabin crew was later released approximately two hours later

with no further treatments. Aircraft maintenance personnel tested the air packs of the

airplane, determining that no outside fumes or odors were the result of the cause. It was

determined that the odors and or fumes were coming from the air vents inside the aircraft.

The plane was grounded and taken to the hangar for further review and the flight was

canceled. No information of the customers who had complained of the same symptoms as

the crew were publicized or addressed.

Synopsis

A321 Flight Attendant reported that before, during, and after boarding, everyone on board

the aircraft complained of a pungent fuel, fish, and kerosene/paint thinner odor. The crew

and passengers were taken off the aircraft which was moved to the hangar. Medical tests

found no apparent ill effects.

ACN: 1377255 (31 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201608

Place



Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Person

Reference : 1







Events






Assessments



Narrative: 1

After the final service cart had been completed I noticed I was feeling suddenly very faint,

dizzy, and nauseated. I went to the back galley and sat on the jump seat, thinking I

needed to go to the lav I got up and fainted near the jump seat. I hit my head in the fall

on the galley counter, and when I regained consciousness I put myself in the jump seat

and strapped in. The c flight attendant called captain, we were under 18 thousand feet and

informed him that I needed to be replaced. The crew decided that because of my state I

needed to be assessed by medics. Medical personnel met the plane and took me to the

emergency room. They took me off before allowing off passengers for fear that I had

injured my head in the fall or would faint again, under an emergency situation minimum

crew was not present for deplaning. I was concussed and confused by this point and did

not realize until later at the hospital that I had violated minimum crew.

Because it was an emergency situation and the paramedics believed I needed to exit the

plane immediately I'm not sure violating minimum crew could have been avoided.

Synopsis

B737 Flight Attendant reported feeling faint, passed out and hit her head on galley

counter. Medical personnel met aircraft and she was removed before passengers deplaned.

ACN: 1377250 (32 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : GOOY.Airport



Environment

Light : Night

Aircraft

Reference : X


Person

Reference : 1

Location In Aircraft.Other





Events



Assessments

Contributing Factors / Situations : Airport




Narrative: 1

At XA:45 another Flight Attendant and I commercial into Dakar Senegal. While she was

trying to find out what to do about her lost luggage (along with 25 others.*note* no one

spoke English). I was trying to locate our ground transportation. There was no ground

transportation there for us. A nice dressed man in a Polo Shirt who seemed to know the

airport staff started to help me with my luggage. I was at this time calling crew

scheduling, and they were unsure about getting us a time frame for ground transportation.

I asked if I should grab a taxi. Crew scheduling say that would be the best solution. I told

Polo Shirt guy about the other Flight Attendant trying to find out about her luggage, he

proceeded to walk over and cut in line to ask about her luggage. It didn't make it on the

plane. Now the airport is clearing out. Polo Shirt asked if we wanted a taxi. I said yes and

asked if they took a credit card. No was the answer. Polo Shirt started walking over to the

cash machine and told me to take out a certain amount of money. I did, however having

no idea what I took out compared to US dollars. Remember that now the airport is almost

deserted.

We walk out following Polo Shirt (he still has my luggage and has been helping) he walks

me to a second parking lot that is not well lit. Remember it's now probably XB:30, dark

and deserted! There is now more than 8 men trying to entice me to go with them into

their car, saying don't go with Polo Shirt not safe! The other Flight Attendant was still

hanging a ways away from me (I didn't know this at the time however she said there was

a man standing right behind me within 18 inches and moving along with my every step.

Remember it's dark and I can only see what is in front of me. The men now are arguing

about who gets to drive us! It's loud and now scary! The other Flight Attendant is now

yelling at me "come back over to the road that is close to the airport!" I said "we need to

get a ride, come to me and let's go in one of these cars!" Now she's yelling at the top of

her lungs. (Remember I don't know there's a creepy guy immediately behind me. Also she

can see more than 8 men. Apparently there was about 14.) "I am not getting into any of

those cars! Come towards me to the other road!" I go to her and we cross back over to

the street that has some taxis also. Now Polo Shirt is not happy however I still tell him to

put my luggage into the other taxi. Now the airport security shows up wearing a

bulletproof vest because it's a lot of yelling. He told Polo Shirt to back off. I tell the other

FA to get in to the new selected taxi (now has lighted sign on top however no meter) She

is terrified and says "no!" I explained to her we CANNOT stay here and get in! She gets in

and we ride to hotel. It's not close. Very unsafe surroundings and I'm thinking if we have a

flat tire we will never be seen again. We finally make it to our hotel and he takes money

needed for fair. Apparently he took $80 from me instead of the normal $8 taxi. This was a

very scary night!

No ground transportation was provided. Arriving at a third world unsafe country in the

middle of the night. This could have been avoided if ground transportation was provided

and actually showed up. Also if time of arrival was not in the middle of the night. Keep in

mind we were in West Africa not some place safe like Germany.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant and a co-worker reported being sent to Dakar, Senegal late at night

with no transportation arranged by the company. After dealing with a shady character they

are able to get cab to their hotel.

ACN: 1377246 (33 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place



Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X






Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Person

Reference : 1










Events






Assessments





Narrative: 1

Walking from forward galley to get coffee, due to coffeepot in aft galley was broken. As I

entered the galley door way, I was thrown up to the top of aircraft and slammed back

down on the floor, I felt a sharp pain in my foot, looked down and it was turned

backwards, I looked at the A-FA that was seated in the aft jumpseat, at the time, he saw it

and said don't move, he immediately called the Captain. Then came back to me, and I'm

not sure if he or the doctor on board told me they had to reset my foot immediately, but

he turned my foot and the doctor assisted by getting a seat cushion under my ankle and

they put ice on it and continued talking to me, because I was passing out. They prepared

me on the floor for landing. We landed and the EMS came on board, assisted me, and took

me off the aircraft to the hospital.

Synopsis

EMB-170 Flight Attendant reported being thrown up to the ceiling then slammed to the

floor causing a severe ankle injury. She was assisted by a doctor on board and transported

to the hospital upon arrival.

ACN: 1377245 (34 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi


Person

Reference : 1










Events







Assessments



Narrative: 1

I was completing my final passenger compliance walk-through while we were taxiing out

to the runway for take-off. I picked up trash throughout the cabin and went back to the

AFT galley to throw away the bag and double-check the B Flight Attendant's (FA) galley

latches. I opened the trash cart and realized that the cart was full. This was the first flight

of the day and there had been a security checklist completed that I handed to the gate

agent when I closed the door. I told the B FA that the security checklist had not been

completed correctly if the trash cart was not emptied.

I immediately called the flight deck and told the Captain what we had found. The aircraft

stopped while the captain was on the phone with flight operations. They were trying to

decide if we should pull back to the gate. The First Officer (FO) and I searched our

manuals to find out exactly what the procedure was for completing a security checklist. We

were instructed to return to the gate.

When we arrived back to the gate, the captain was talking with ground crew through the

flight deck window. The supervisor on duty tried to contact the supervisor from the

previous night to find out if the paperwork was filled out wrong or if security had not been

completed on the Aircraft however, they could not reach the employee. The decision was

made to deplane all of the passengers and conduct a thorough security check.

Multiple ground crew came onboard and assisted me, the B FA, the captain and the FO in

completing the security checklist. The captain later informed me that as we were pushing

from the gate, he heard over the radio that the aircraft at the gate next to us possibly had

a security issue as well.

I cannot say for sure that an aircraft security checklist was falsified. However, I do know

that the security checklist was completely filled out stating that the entire aircraft had

been searched. In addition, the AFT trash cart was full which means that was not

inspected.

Synopsis

EMB175 Flight Attendant discovered during taxi out that the aft galley trash bin was not

emptied during the overnight, indicating that the security inspection for the first flight of

the day was not completed although the security form was completed and signed. The

aircraft was returned to the gate and the inspection completed.

ACN: 1376415 (35 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X






Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi


Component : 1

Aircraft Component : Cockpit/Cabin Communication



Component : 2

Aircraft Component : Interphone System



Person

Reference : 1














Human Factors : Troubleshooting




Events









Assessments





Narrative: 1

Just before reaching the gate the emergency all call light chimes were flashing and

chiming. I picked up the interphone and there was no one there. The chime kept going. I

gave the phone to my flying partner asking if he heard anyone on the other line. We tried

to call the Captain there was no contact. We tried to call door 1 there was no contact

available. There was an odd smell in the cabin and mist. I asked my flying partner to

watch my door I was going up to door 1. Walking briskly through the cabin, the smell was

strong and constant chime kept ringing. I asked the Purser if she was able to get in touch

with the cockpit. She said no. I knocked on the cockpit door. We heard over the pa to pick

up the phone. I picked up the phone and could not hear anyone. It took about 30 more

seconds and finally heard the pilot over interphone say it was ok to disarm the doors. We

did. Chimes were still going.

I went back to door 2 passengers were asking if that was smoke on the plane. Once at

door 2 the flashing light and chime came on to call captain. I tried and there was no

contact available. Then the emergency all call lights continued. We were at the gate with

jetbridge attached. I called up to the cockpit and asked if the pilots would please stay

onboard and debrief with us. The First Officer said the Captain was in the lavatory and he

would talk to him when he was out. Meanwhile the chimes are still going. Passengers

began to deplane. The First Officer called to the back and ask what it was I wanted. I said

we needed to know what the protocol is when something like this happens and how did

this happen? He did not know how this happened. He said protocol is just what he did he

made an announcement for us to pick up the phone. I was hoping the pilots would be

onboard to debrief with the crew. They were gone. Mechanics were onboard after

passengers deplaned.

I asked if the pilots explained what had happened? Mechanic had a piece of paper in his

hand and was not clear on any details. I explained to him what had occurred. I briefed the

new Captain and flight attendants on what happened. Suggestions-pilots stay onboard and

debrief with their crew make a pa announcement assuring passengers all was ok (instead I

had to do this after finally having connection on interphone to disarm) possibly make an

announcement letting us know all was ok considering there was no phone contact for 2-3

minutes but the emergency all call light continued to flash and chime. Possibly stay and

brief the mechanics. We were concerned for our safety. In the back of the aircraft we had

the strange odor and were getting ready to possibly evacuate. We did not know what was

happening up front. The passengers did not know what was happening.

Synopsis

A320 Flight Attendant reported the Emergency ALL CALL lights and chimes were flashing

during taxi to the gate along with an odd smell and cabin mist. The pilots did not return

repeated intercom calls and did not debrief the crew or Maintenance after deplaning.

ACN: 1375671 (36 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Emergency Equipment


Person

Reference : 1









Events



Detector.Person : Passenger



Assessments





Narrative: 1

[A blind] passenger boarded and I briefed her how many exit row forward and aft to

bathrooms and exits. Showed her call light, oxygen masks. She was happy briefing done.

Number 4 Flight Attendant (FA) did hear my briefing and thought it thorough. We called

when no braille card found in demo bag. Called flight service and [they] claimed we don't

carry any longer. Cabin service/mechanic that brought card said "we haven't had these in

a while." We were taken back by that comment.

Number 4 FA handed her card. Half way through flight she mentioned to me pages were

missing on the brace position. I explained that if ever an emergency we would have

briefed everyone with checklist. She felt discriminated against for unable to be

accommodated like everyone else. I agreed with her and said I would report braille card

incomplete. Number 4 was stopped and told braille card had parts missing but never

stated what. Should had been specific on missing part. Page 4 of card stopped printing in

middle of the sentence with descriptions of brace position. Also FAs should be informed if

braille cards are no longer used.

Braille cards need to be checked for misspellings and to be sure onboard in demo bags.

She felt discriminated against when everyone else had opportunity to look at their cards.

Synopsis

B737 Flight Attendant reported difficulty locating a braille briefing card, which was

eventually located. Enroute the Flight Attendant was informed by the passenger that the

card was not complete.

ACN: 1375391 (37 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Regional Jet 900 (CRJ900)



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Oxygen System/Pax


Problem : Improperly Operated

Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Lavatory








Events







Assessments




Narrative: 1

Upon preflight of the forward lavatory, I noticed that TSA had placed a security seal across

the drop down oxygen masks which would prevent them from functioning in a

decompression. I notified my Captain and Maintenance (who was on board for other

issues). Maintenance removed the seal and stated that they were not supposed to be

sealed shut.

TSA is not informed or educated on what exactly needs to be inspected and sealed. They

are tampering with and disabling safety equipment on numerous aircraft daily. The

company does not have a policy or procedure to prevent this from happening or to inspect

all AC every morning to make sure the lavatory O2 masks are not disabled by TSA security

tape.

1. TSA needs to stop tampering with and disabling lavatory safety equipment.

2. The Company needs to come up with a 1st flight of the day plan to inspect and remove

misapplied security seals that disable lavatory O2 masks that does not involve a 30 minute

delay with MX and multiple personnel.

3. The Company needs to disseminate a directive to check and remove seals before

someone is injured or worse from lack of functioning safety equipment.

Synopsis

CRJ-900 Flight Attendant reported discovering that the TSA had affixed a security seal

over the passenger oxygen door in the forward lavatory likely rendering it inoperative.

Maintenance removed the seal.

ACN: 1375387 (38 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Dash 8-200



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger



Component

Aircraft Component : Turbine Engine


Problem : Failed

Person

Reference : 1







Events






Assessments



Narrative: 1

The Captain called me stating that there is an engine failure and we would be landing in 2

mins. I was not advised to prepare the cabin. I did see the propeller had stopped and one

or two passengers did see that as well. Everyone for the most part was calm. However we

all were extremely hot. There was no medical emergency on board. I ensure everything

was stowed, seatbelt securely fastened. We landed safely and everyone deplaned

normally.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant in a Bombardier Dash 8 reported that after the Captain told her they

were landing due to an engine failure, she had very little time to prepare the cabin.

ACN: 1374486 (39 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Environment

Light : Night

Aircraft

Reference : X




Mission : Passenger




Component

Aircraft Component : Aircraft Furnishing

Manufacturer : Boeing


Problem : Design

Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Crew Rest Area









Events






Assessments



Primary Problem : Environment - Non Weather Related

Narrative: 1

All was well, until I got up from my crew break. I had a "deep" sore throat, a throbbing

headache, and shallow breathing. Both of the symptoms lasted until well into my layover

the following day, with my headache remaining until pickup from the hotel last night. On

my layover, I slept pretty much the entire time. It was like I could not get enough sleep.

On my flight back, all seemed well. I was still overly tired. [The day after] I have been

coughing up mucus, have a headache, and feel as if I can't catch my breath.

Please note, another crew member on this flight had like symptoms.

The cockpit was not notified.

Please document that this is not the first time this has happened to me. I flew the B777

[in the past] consistently. [A few months ago] I noticed that I was coughing and

congested after my crew break in the bunks. I thought I was getting better, but it just

worsened. On one particular flight, I literally could not breathe and ran down the stairs,

almost falling, just trying to get air. Another flight I got out of the bunks and I had no

voice. I tried taking over the counter medications, but decided I needed a prescription. I

went to [a clinic] with coughing, difficulty breathing, congestion.......I was diagnosed with

Bronchitis.

[Months later], I needed to go to [another clinic] for the same symptoms. I was diagnosed

with an upper respiratory infection.

Synopsis

A Flight Attendant reported that she became extremely ill after getting up from her crew

break. The reporter noticed this because she was coughing and congested after her break

in the crew bunks.

ACN: 1374356 (40 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Tower : ZZZ





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi

Component

Aircraft Component : Hydraulic System Lines, Connectors, Fittings


Problem : Failed

Person : 1

Reference : 1








Person : 2

Reference : 2




Function.Flight Crew : First Officer

Function.Flight Crew : Pilot Not Flying

Qualification.Flight Crew : Air Transport Pilot (ATP)


Events








Result.General : Evacuated


Assessments



Narrative: 1

Prior to boarding we were told by Captain to hold off on boarding passengers as we may

have a major hydraulic leak (as I heard it in back galley). Maintenance was in & out of

flight deck. Approximately 20-25 minutes later as I was standing in forward cabin talking

to other FAs & the gate agent, the Captain gave a thumbs up to board the aircraft as the

mechanic had signed off on the issue. I voiced my concern to the other FAs & gate agent

that I could not understand how we could have a possible hydraulic leak & the issue be

resolved so quickly. I also understand that a pressurization test was done, but the forward

boarding door was never closed. On taxi-out, after Captain gave announcement to prepare

for departure & engines were revving up, an odor was smelled and felt by passengers and

crew & I heard a loud screeching noise. An FA made announcement that Captain was

aware of odor and checking into it. I was trying to call Captain about noise, when the

Captain gave the evacuation command. Passengers were already at doors by the time I

could access. I had to put up my hand & tell them to stand back until the slide deployed

and I knew I had good slide. We had many wheelchair passengers which slowed down

evacuation. C FA & I had to switch doors due to elderly gentleman being dragged by his

wife w/his cane to my door. C FA, being male said he would grab him under the arms to

sit him on slide. I continued evacuation at 2R.

Narrative: 2

I found hydraulic fluid streams and drips on the lower fuselage during the pre-flight walk

around, from just aft of landing gear doors to the APU. Additionally, there were two

puddles under the aircraft. The captain and I notified Maintenance, who had us write it up

in aircraft maintenance logbook. Maintenance lowered the landing gear doors, and I

accompanied the contract Maintenance tech while he examined the compartments. No

leaks were found. The tech also said he went into a tail compartment, and he said both

were dry. The captain suggested pressurizing the three hydraulic systems, which were

accomplished, and no leaks were detected by maintenance. Maintenance signed off the

discrepancy. We closed the door and pushed back and all was normal. We departed

approximately 10 minutes late. We received the load close out; engine 1 start and single

engine taxi were normal. Shortly thereafter, we started engine 2. Soon thereafter, we

received the first call from the flight attendants came in about noxious fumes. We had

completed our Taxi Checklist down to "Line." Almost immediately, the cockpit began filling

with fumes. We opened the cockpit windows, and then received two more calls from FAs.

This was happening while multiple ECAM messages were popping up and master caution

alarms going off at same time. A brief evacuation was implemented. We needed to get

people out to fresh air. We grabbed our QRHs and the Evacuation checklist was run. The

captain asked, "Are we really doing this?" and I agreed we had to get them outside. An

evacuation was commanded over the PA, Tower was notified of the evacuation. The

captain and I moved to the cabin to help get the few remaining passengers off, then FAs.

The captain coached an elderly lady out on the slide. I found passengers coming back into

airplane due to hydraulic fluid on a slide, and so I directed them to another slide. We

finished checking the cabin before I departed the aircraft on a slide, with the captain right

behind me. When I left, there was a definite rain shower of fluid still pouring out of

aircraft. I helped the captain and the #1 FA move the passengers to the port side of the

aircraft before then moving to starboard as fire trucks were arriving. Buses were delayed

crossing the active runway, but finally arrived and transported passengers back to the

terminal. The captain and I stayed with the aircraft until maintenance was able to get air

stairs to the aircraft and I could get my non-descript bag from cockpit.

Synopsis

A320 First Officer and a Flight Attendant described a passenger evacuation when a

hydraulic leak turned into dense smoke and fumes in the cabin and cockpit during taxi out.

ACN: 1374341 (41 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Maintenance Status.Maintenance Type : Unscheduled Maintenance

Component

Aircraft Component : APU



Person

Reference : 1









Events








Assessments



Narrative: 1

Inbound flight landed late due to weather on the field. Deplaning began, and we were

connected to ground power. Our inbound pilots left the aircraft. As the flight attendants

began tiding the aircraft, the 'C' and myself 'K' met midcabin and commented on the

strange and strong chemical odor. Once all passengers had deplaned, the 'A' walked back

and mentioned the smell as well, but said our pilots were already gone. The new crew

working the aircraft outbound were already on the jetway. The 'A' told the pilots and they

confirmed they smelled the odor on the jetway and called maintenance. The A, B, and C

FAs collected their belongings as they were off to their overnight. We all stepped off the

aircraft as soon as we could. I, the 'K' FA, had an immediate headache, nausea and

lightheadedness. The outbound pilots then called paramedics who came to the jetway. I

was checked out and with blood pressure elevated, was taken to the ER. The flight was

later cancelled and grounded until the next day.

If it is determined that the maintenance is lacking in this area, with the APU leaks, it needs

to be a priority for these checks to occur on a regular basis- for the safety of ALL

concerned.

Synopsis

A321 Flight Attendant reported a strange and strong chemical odor while deplaning.

Subsequently the aircraft was taken out of service.

ACN: 1374340 (42 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1







Events






Assessments




Narrative: 1

Four Flight Attendants boarded the aircraft. There was an extremely thick fog throughout

the cabin. It was as heavy as smoke. It was difficult to see the other two Flight Attendants

at the opposite end of the aircraft. After determining that the thick fog was NOT smoke,

we concluded that the cause of the thick fog was due to condensation. The weather in DEN

was very hot (90 degree range). Passengers boarded 10 minutes after us and were also

exposed to inhalation of the thick fog. The Pilots arrived about 15-20 minutes after

passenger boarding. It was determined that the thick fog was pesticide spray. Our aircraft

came in from Cancun and was treated [here]. My contact lenses had a permanent heavy

film on them and my voice became very weak and scratchy. I continued to taste and smell

the pesticide spray in my sinuses and mouth for several days, in addition to nausea.

Please tell us what we were exposed to.

Synopsis

B737 Flight Attendant reported the crew and passengers were unknowingly exposed to

pesticide spray in the form of a heavy fog when they boarded the aircraft.

ACN: 1372671 (43 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X






Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger

Flight Phase : Taxi


Person

Reference : 1











Communication Breakdown.Party2 : Other

Events

Anomaly.Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event : Passenger Electronic Device




Assessments




Narrative: 1

The safety demo had completed. I was walking through the cabin from my position at row

31L and saw that the blue light in the aisle was lit, notifying me of electrical outlet use, at

35DEF. I stopped, saying, "I have an indication that the electrical outlet is in use; we need

to have all electronic devices unplugged for takeoff and landing." 35D and E looked at me

confused. 35F was asleep with headphone on and didn't stir. I repeated it. Still nothing.

We determined it was F. I spoke up to get the attention of the passenger, unable to reach

him. The FA on the other side was still far away.

The passenger opened his eyes and looked at me. I repeated my line a 3rd time. He said,

"What?" I repeated it a 4th time, still loudly. He then took off his head phones and asked

me to repeat it a 5th time. By this time I was fairly [irritated] and repeated it louder and

more firmly. He complied. I got 2 rows further and found another person with a device

plugged in who had not heard me shouting and I had to repeat this request 2 more times.

The use of PEDs during safety checks, the demo, and before landing is a dangerous

practice. It puts flight attendants at risk as it takes us longer to ensure compliance with

people who are not paying attention and we have to work at getting it. Whether it's for

electrical outlets in use, tray tables down or seats back, PED use has made it much more

difficult to ensure the safety of other passengers and ensure I'm in my jump seat in a

timely manner. PED use should no longer be allowed when passengers should be able to

respond quickly to commands and requests from working crew.

Synopsis

Air carrier Flight Attendant reported being concerned about passenger use of electronic

devices during safety checks and would like to see the policy changed to not allow their

use at those times.

ACN: 1371626 (44 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607

Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Ceiling : CLR

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger






Person

Reference : 1











Events


Anomaly.Ground Event / Encounter : Other / Unknown





Assessments


Contributing Factors / Situations : Equipment / Tooling


Narrative: 1

When [we] arrived back at [home base], we had no stairs to deplane the aircraft. Instead

they brought a baggage belt that they use to load bags into the cargo, and we had to walk

down it. I could have fallen down that belt and seriously injured myself. That was not safe

at all.

Synopsis

B737 Flight Attendant reported he had to deplane the aircraft via the cargo loading belt

when no stairs were available.

ACN: 1371552 (45 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607

Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Crew Rest Area






Events


Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : Other / Unknown



Assessments




Narrative: 1

After my break, I woke up with a scratchy throat and a headache. I did not think anything

of it, I was coughing and congested when I got home. It worsened and I thought I just

had a bug. I took Ibuprofen and NyQuil which helped a bit. I rested the whole time.

Flight attendants were being polled, when you come down from your crew break

(777/200-300 or 787), did you experience a scratchy throat, headache, dizziness,

dermatitis or any respiratory issue (gist of survey). For a very short period of time, a lot of

flight attendants chimed in. The poll was pasted in two groups, people chimed in. With the

outcome available from the [union], there is quite a list of flight attendants experiencing

the same symptoms. [It's been 6 days] and I am still sick, I got medical care on the [5th

day] after coming to full realization that the issues were endemic to the crew bunks. I am

also concerned that this might have long lasting effects, I wanted to get checked out. I

went to the ER for immediate attention. X-ray, steroids and other medication was

prescribed.

Apparently there were reports of bedbugs in the bunks. So the bunks are being fumigated

and it is not aired out, it is a very confined space, yes, crew will get sick. The mattresses

and curtains should be a changed on a regular basis. Residues from the pesticide and

insecticides should be wiped off after spraying. Well, with the plane getting turned around

at [a quick] pace, I don't think detailed cleaning is accomplished.

Now if they apply the same procedures to the cockpit crew bunks, this poses a more

serious situation for the crew and the passengers.

Synopsis

After a crew rest in a crew rest area of a B787, a Flight Attendant woke up with a scratchy

throat and a headache.

ACN: 1371278 (46 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1












Human Factors : Fatigue

Events










Assessments





Narrative: 1

After having a reduced rest overnight due to weather, mechanicals, and a diversion, I

woke up from having little sleep. I had a severe headache, nausea, burning eyes, sore

eyelids, and dizzy. I tried my best to work my flight with alertness but I was fatigue.

Because flight attendants are not allowed a program that would protect them to ensure

their rest, I tried my best to work under these conditions. As the flight went on it was

apparent that I was unsafe to fly. I forgot to do the electronic PA when closing the

passenger door. As I got up to do my service I was dizzy. My fellow flight attendant who

recently suffered from a heart attack felt exhausted. Both of our motor skills were slow.

We arrived to the hotel earlier that morning. Having a show time to the airport of XA:41

(the van ride from the hotel is at least 20 to 30 minutes away). After I landed from doing

the flight I realize that I would have to sit in the airport for about 2 1/2 hrs with no rest

area to try to nap, and then do a 4 1/2 turn returning back at XA:00pm at night, I decided

to call in fatigue for my last turn. As I was already a risk to the safety of myself and

customers, it would only increase my conditions. I was slowly moving around inflight, and

not paying attention no matter how hard I tried. I was so unsafe to fly, and should not

have worked that flight back to my domicile but I wanted to try to do what was required of

me. But I realized while working I was putting safety at risk. So for the safety of others I

decided to remove myself from any further flying.

Synopsis

An EMB-145 Flight Attendant called in fatigued after a short overnight following a day of

mechanicals and weather delays. Her fatigue affected motor and cognitive performance to

a point she felt unsafe.

ACN: 1370557 (47 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : ZZZZ.Airport


Environment

Light : Dawn

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Ramp : ZZZZ





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Flight Phase : Taxi

Component

Aircraft Component : APU


Person

Reference : 1














Events





Anomaly.Inflight Event / Encounter : Other / Unknown






Assessments





Narrative: 1

Shortly before landing, the cabin area around the 3L and 3R doors smelled strongly like

vomit or sweaty feet/old socks. I covered my nose with my necktie at the 3R jumpseat. I

had taken my jumpseat about 3-5 minutes before landing after I had completed my final

safety checks. That's when I noticed the smell. I deliberated for a moment about whether

to call the pilots during sterile cockpit or whether to let them know on the ground. I

decided on the latter. I failed to call the purser before touchdown and inform him of the

smell. I had smelt something similar but much less intense during takeoff and had not

found it noteworthy then. As far as I am aware, there was no such smell in coach during

the flight. None of the passengers in the area seemed sick, no one from the crew was

aware of any passenger having thrown up. After landing, before I could take the issue

further, a debriefing by the captain in first class was announced. I couldn't hear much of

what he was saying because by the time I arrived he was talking to station mechanics.

Apparently, during the flight, that same smell had gone to nearly unbearable extremes

inside the cockpit. The copilot later on the remote gate shuttle bus explained that they had

several times considered diverting the flight. This was the first time I heard of that. I

asked the purser on the bus if he had known of any of this in flight. He said no. There was

also talk on the bus that one of the auxiliary power units had failed in flight. I had not

heard of that before either. I was not asked by any of the pilots in flight if there was a

strange smell in the (economy) cabin, nor am I aware that anyone of my coach coworkers

was consulted. Inside the terminal, I went to a restroom because I felt the unusual urge to

blow my nose, clear my throat and spit out the saliva several times. I drove home in my

car after the flight and stopped 20 minutes later at an autobahn restaurant due to a

headache. After some research at home, I am concerned that I have been exposed to

(TCP) contaminated, toxic bleed air through the air conditioning system on today's flight. I

would like to be informed what the exact findings (by maintenance or whoever is in

charge) were as to why a severe smell was present in the cockpit and in the cabin on

today's flight and what has been done about the incident. The airplane was supposed to go

on to ZZZ today, according to the ZZZZ ground agent.

Synopsis

A B777 Flight Attendant reported detecting a sweaty feet/old sock odor toward the flight's

end and during taxi. The Captain held a post flight debrief and announced the crew

considered a diversion because of a strong flight station odor. Someone mentioned an

inflight APU failure.

ACN: 1370012 (48 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place

Locale Reference.Airport : LGA.Airport

State Reference : NY


Aircraft

Reference : X





Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Person

Reference : 1


Location In Aircraft : Door Area





Events





Assessments




Narrative: 1

#1 and #3 Flight Attendant and Agent working our Inbound Flight.

I was the #3 on a trip that was ending at LGA for the night. We arrived at the gate and

had no indication from the flight deck that it was safe to get out of our seats; a few things

were happening in the flight deck as we had no APU and they had to leave an engine

running until we received ground power. During this time the seatbelt sign was left on and

the cabin lights in the night mode as they are turned on when we receive our signal from

the flight deck. The agent knocked and #1 gave her the Do Not Open signal, arms in an X

over the window, as the doors were still armed (still had not yet received an indication

from flight deck) with the strap still attached over the window. Again the agent knocks and

again she is given the Do Not Open signal but then proceeds to try and open the door so I

(#3) reach over the #1 and push the handle back down into the closed position so that

the agent doesn't blow the slide. While still holding the handle down from the inside of the

aircraft, we finally get an indication from the flight deck that it's okay to disarm. The #1

disarms her door while I'm still holding the handle down because the agent is still trying to

open the door. Finally she gets her door disarmed and I get mine disarmed all the while

the agent is now not opening the door claiming that she can't open it from the outside

now. She asks for our assistance and I tell her through the door that the procedure is that

we no longer open the door from the inside but again she claims that she can't do it. So I,

as someone not on probation, crack the door for the agent - breaking procedure only to be

belittled and yelled at by the agent. She begins to yell at us loud enough that a

deadheading pilot sitting in the third row of first class hears every word that is said by the

agent. She told us that because we had no lights on that she couldn't see any indication

from us, yet the orange strap is clearly visible from the outside of the aircraft with the

jumpseat reading lights on, that it wasn't safe to open. My response to her was that "if

there are no lights on then that does not mean try to open the door as we were dealing

with things on the inside that she wasn't aware of." It was a potentially dangerous

situation not only for myself and the #1 flight attendant but for the agent as well. We did

have a light on it entry door but it was not the full overhead light as we had not been

given our indicators from the flight deck.

Synopsis

Flight Attendant reported that during arrival in LGA they had to hold the aircraft door

handle down to prevent the gate agent from opening the door before it was disarmed.

ACN: 1369731 (49 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201607


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X


Make Model Name : Regional Jet 700 ER/LR (CRJ700)



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Escape Slide



Person

Reference : 1










Human Factors : Troubleshooting




Events



Anomaly.Deviation - Procedural : Maintenance





Assessments





Narrative: 1

After hearing "Flight Attendants prepare for arrival and crosscheck" I attempted to disarm

doors 2L and 2R, 2R disarmed properly but 2L, however, would not. After lifting the

protective covering I held and pulled up on the Arming Lever and the Vent Flap handles

simultaneously, but the handle/lever would not completely raise. After viewing the slide

indicator, I noticed that it showed both ARMED and DISARMED (as if the indicator was

caught in the middle). I also noticed that the girt bar was neither fully CLEAR OR RED and

that the vent flap showed GREEN/CLEAR as if it were also caught in the middle. Before

giving the "2L and 2R is disarmed and crossed checked" announcement, I immediately

called FA 1 on the interphone to inform him of the situation, I also advised him to notify

the captain. After explaining the situation to the captain (via the interphone and before the

opening of the passenger entry door), the captain informed me that "The door is showing

DISARMED in the cockpit." I advised him again "the door is not completely showing

disarmed back here," at this point he advised me to "try again," I did and received the

same results. The captain informed me again that the door was still indicating disarmed

therefore it was okay to proceed with deplaning. Due to the inaccuracy of the door

indicators, I requested for maintenance and was informed that the issue would be "written

up." After the passengers had left, I asked FA1 to look at the door. My FA and I then

switched aircraft (to work another flight) and within 2-3 hours the In-flight office notified

us of the "LIVE DOOR" incident. The white door handle was never moved (at least not in

my presence) therefore I still don't understand how this would've occurred, but

nonetheless it happened, and these were events leading up to the incident.

The manual doesn't state what should be done if this type of incident occurs, it has

verbiage regarding "LIVE DOOR" incidents, but Flight Attendants should know what they

should do if the door doesn't completely disarm the first time. I am not sure if I was

supposed to actually "try it again" I don't think the captain knew if I should've "tried it

again," I guess we were just both winging it.

It's hard to make suggestions regarding "what can be done to fix the problem" when you

don't understand what caused the problem in the first place. When we landed, I properly

disarmed the door, and I tried to disarm it again in the same manner when we landed

(following the manual and training procedures) but unfortunately something went wrong.

Synopsis

CRJ-700 Flight Attendant reported the 2L door would not disarm after gate arrival, so it

was entered in the maintenance log and the crew left. Later the Flight Attendant was

notified of a live door event by another crew, so apparently Maintenance was not notified.

ACN: 1352074 (50 of 50)

Time / Day

Date : 201605


Place




Environment

Light : Daylight

Aircraft

Reference : X

ATC / Advisory.Ramp : ZZZ


Make Model Name : SF 340B



Flight Plan : IFR

Mission : Passenger


Component

Aircraft Component : Portable Extinguisher



Person

Reference : 1










Events









Assessments





Narrative: 1

I entered aircraft and proceeded with preflight and safety check. Checked equipment in

Lav; shut trash receptacle door and Halon fire extinguisher released its contents onto

myself and dress. I immediately reported incident to Captain, he contacted ops and

maintenance. I called Inflight Base Manager and he asked if I was ok to continue with

schedule. I said I felt ok and needed to clean up and change uniforms. After breathing in

the fumes I started to feel unwell, sweating and could taste the fumes when I swallowed, I

decided I wasn't fit to fly. The Inflight Base Manager called scheduling. I was removed off

of trip.

Synopsis

A SF-340 Flight Attendant preflighting her cabin, closed the LAV Trash Receptacle door and

the Halon fire extinguishing agent discharged onto her. She was removed from the trip

feeling ill and sweating with a foul taste when swallowing.

Documents

Flight Attendant Reports - NASA · PDF fileFlight Attendant Reports . Report Set Description ... Report Set, with the objective of providing the fifty most recent relevant ASRS Database