It's Getting Hot in HereSummer is upon us and cabin temperatures are on the rise. Reports are coming in from throughout the system that hot aircraft are becoming a safety concern.
In an effort to more clearly define the Company’s position on boarding hot airplanes, Debra Petersen and the
Cabin & Inflight Services Committee has been reaching out to Management with our Membership concerns, and suggestions and requests to help ensure the safety of our crew and passengers.
We are working to establish heat specific procedures and polices that include water service in the event of ground holds, and to identify a safe cabin temperature for boarding.
Life-threatening problems can occur if your body is unable to keep cool. Heat can cause a range of health effects and lower your job performance. By following a few practices and being aware of warning signs, you and your passengers can stay healthy this summer.
- Do your best to cool the aircraft down before boarding. Make sure vents are open, window shades are down, and request APU or Ground Air when needed.
- Keep in mind passengers can be dehydrated or overheated before even reaching our aircraft, and watch for rising cabin temperatures during boarding.
- Be aware that sitting inside an overheated cabin without proper ventilation can be a serious health risk, especially for the very old and the very young. Look for signs of heat stroke and exhaustion from crew and passengers during delays and extended periods in high temperatures.
As we work with management to establish boarding procedures for the hot summer months, please be mindful that as flight attendants we need to be professional at all times. As such, we are obligated to look out for the best interest of our passengers and our company.
Until a defined policy is in place, you are empowered and encouraged to use your best judgement on when to begin boarding.
Remember, don’t “tough it out.” If you, your passengers or crew feel faint, dizzy or confused, get them to a cooler area immediately. It is a medical emergency!
In Unity,
Your 577 N.T.