2 senators call on FAA to study impact of reduced flight attendant staffing

Two Senate Democrats, Tammy Duckworth and Tammy Baldwin, are pressing FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford for answers regarding overdue airplane evacuation testing and the FAA’s decision to allow airlines to reduce flight attendants on some long-haul flights. They express concern that fewer attendants could leave passengers vulnerable during emergencies, as there might be more exit doors than attendants. The senators highlight that American Airlines, Delta, and United have received FAA approval to reduce attendants, potentially leaving one attendant responsible for two doors and hundreds of passengers. Despite American Airlines’ new 787-9P aircraft being certified with seven attendants for eight doors, the airline typically assigns more attendants based on flight distance. The FAA requires airlines to complete evacuation demonstrations for each seating configuration to determine staffing needs, which can vary. The senators argue that reducing crew could compromise safety during evacuations. QUESTION: How might reducing the number of flight attendants on long-haul flights impact passenger safety and the overall flying experience?