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        You are here: Home / Archives for Committees / Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

        Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – August 2026

        September 14, 2026 17:00

        On Thursday, August 27, our Seattle Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) representatives met with management to discuss ongoing safety concerns, operational challenges, policy updates, and workplace improvements impacting Flight Attendants across the operation. Representing you at the meeting were Deb Walstrom (ANC), David Lake (SEA pmAS), Kahea Alvarez (LAX/SEA pmHA), Carin Merritt (LAX pmAS), Eva Gatus (SAN), Baron Lee (HNL), Kalin Lackey (PDX), MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson Brad Young, and MEC ASHSC Chairperson Seth Heiple. Also in attendance were members of the SEA pmHA ASHSC.

        The Committee met with several members of inflight and safety department management, including Heidi Stiley (Cabin Safety & Compliance Manager), Matthew Coder (Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager), Shari Hinshaw (Manager of Inflight Policy & Procedures), Randy Katz (Managing Director of Inflight Safety Standards and Training), Rhonda Jordan (Safety Standards & Compliance), Jenny Bookert (SEA Director of Inflight), Karen Wook (SEA Inflight Supervisor), Olinga Asress (Manager of Inflight Base Operations), David Stewart (Manager on Security Operations), and Fermin Navarrette (Director of Security)

        The next scheduled Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee meeting will take place virtually October 22, 2026

        Topics of Discussion

        The Committee reviewed several items when meeting with management. Some items discussed include (items which are Security Sensitive Information are not included):

        • Outstation Catering & Fall Protection: The ASHSC raised concerns that some ground catering vendors are fully opening the R2 door at outstations to service the aft trash can, rather than the required partial opening, creating a fall hazard. Management acknowledged the issue, said a bulletin will go out to catering vendors, and noted this has high visibility and continued attention at the executive level.
        • First Class Seat Calf-Rest Stowage: The ASHSC raised ongoing reports of first class calf rests failing to stow properly, creating a potential CFR violation and egress hazard. In the meantime, one aircraft with an updated mechanism is being tested, and if the fix is successful, the other aircraft will be retrofitted.
        • Preflight Emergency Equipment (EE) Check Time: The Committee continued pushing for dedicated preflight time for Flight Attendants to complete required safety and security checks, consistent with what pmHA Flight Attendants and most of the industry currently do. Management stated they believe this needs to be addressed through JCBA negotiations, while the ASHSC reiterated their stance that this is an operational safety issue that should not need to be negotiated.
        • Installed Physical Secondary Barrier (IPSB): The ASHSC made several requests related to the IPSB.
        • Crew Van Seatbelts: The Committee raised ongoing concerns about crew vans and shuttles that don’t have enough working seatbelts for every crew member. Seat belts are required for hotel shuttles under CBA Section 34.B.6.
        • Onboard Oven Safety: Flight Attendants continue to get burned while retrieving food from ovens because current gloves protect only the hands, not the forearms. Management will coordinate with the Inflight Service Committee and the ASHSC to evaluate other glove options that provide greater protection.
        • Carry-Ons Checked at the Gate: The ASHSC raised concerns about passengers checking bags at the gate for priority boarding and then removing the bag tag, so the bag never actually gets checked. Management advises Flight Attendants to send those passengers back to the gate podium if this is witnessed.
        • MedLink App Rollout for pmHA: The ASHSC asked for a timeline for rolling out the MedLink app to pmHA Flight Attendants. Management does not have a firm date yet, but is targeting early 2027.
        • Pilot PA Clarity: The ASHSC requested a reminder for flight crews about PA volume and clarity and encouraged consistent use of the interphone when a PA cannot be understood. The FAM should be updated to direct us to notify pilots when the PA is unclear so they can make adjustments to address the problem or document the issue in the logbook.
        • Universal Glassware Durability: The ASHSC raised ongoing reports of chipped or sharp-edged glassware creating a laceration risk. Management is working with the vendor and reviewing the dishwashing process.
        • Boarding with “Cabin Lights Only”: The ASHSC raised safety concerns about boarding aircraft without full cabin power.
        • Flight Attendant Inflight Home Page Update: The ASHSC flagged that the company website/app still displays a misleading message stating Flight Attendants are up to date on all bulletins.
        • New Evacuation Commands: The ASHSC raised concerns about the new evacuation commands, which will go into effect next year. Specifically, the addition of “leave everything” between repeated commands like “stay back,” which we used to just repeat. We also question the necessity of changing things for both pmHA and pmAS Flight Attendants when there is already a huge amount of change taking place as a result of the merger.

        Things The Committee Is Working On

        1. Radiation Exposure – NAS Report Findings: The National Academies of Sciences recently released a congressionally mandated study confirming that Flight Attendants rank among the most radiation-exposed occupational groups in the country, with documented health risks, but no enforceable FAA dose limit, monitoring requirement, or tracking system. The ASHSC has met with safety department and inflight management to begin closing these gaps and will participate in a working group on the subject going forward. Safety is already sourcing a potential software product to manage exposure tracking. We’ve asked management to:

        • Provide route-level dose estimates, using the FAA’s CARI model or an equivalent internal tool.
        • Deliver training and education on radiation exposure.
        • Work with the MEC to develop accommodations when appropriate, including for pregnant Flight Attendants.

        We Want to Hear From You!

        If you’ve encountered any safety-related issues at work, you can help the Committee advocate for improvement and change by submitting a report:

        • pmHA: Use INTELEX to submit In-Flight Incident Reports (including fatigue and injury) and Hawaiian Safety Action Program (HSAP) reports.
        • pmAS: Use ReportIt! to submit FAIRs (including Fatigue reports), ASAP reports, and Employee Injury Reports (EIR).

        If you need clarification or assistance on what type of report to file, please get in touch with a member of your Local ASHSC.

        Your Local ASHSC is always ready to represent your voice to management. Please don’t hesitate to let us know about any issues or concerns you want us to bring forward. We would also love to hear any other feedback you may have for the Committee. You can find our contact information on the ASHSC page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Tagged With: committee meeting

        Staying Safe On Layovers

        August 27, 2026 09:00

        A joint message from our AFA Hotel Committee; Air Safety, Health & Security Committee (ASHSC); and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee.

        Your safety matters to us—and we want you to come home from every trip safe and well. Most layovers go smoothly, and you can keep it that way by staying aware and trusting your instincts. If something feels off, step away. Your vigilance is your best protection on the road. Here are some practical reminders to help you stay safe, whether you’re overnighting in Anchorage, Honolulu, New York City, or anywhere else your flying takes you.

        If a situation ever feels unsafe, whether on a layover or in transit, call local emergency services first (911 in the U.S.). Next, contact Crew Scheduling—they can connect you with an Inflight Supervisor or an AFA Representative if you need additional support.

        Around The Hotel

        • Maintain a low profile. Don’t share that you’re a crewmember or which airline you work for, and never say your room number out loud—remember, you never know who may be listening.
        • Stick to well-lit, main areas and use the main entrance, especially at night. Skip back stairwells and dark corners around the property.
        • Know where the exits are.
        • If you feel like you’re being followed or watched anywhere in the hotel, head straight to the front desk and stay there until staff can assist you.
        • Don’t flash cash or jewelry, and lock valuables in the hotel safe. See something suspicious? Tell the front desk or a hotel staff member.

        In Your Room

        • When you first walk in, check the closet, bathroom, and windows, and confirm every lock works, including sliding doors, windows, and any connecting-room door.
        • Keep the door locked the entire time you’re inside, and use every locking device provided.
        • When possible, perform room checks in pairs with another crew member outside the room with the door propped open while you check your room.
        • Find your nearest exit and count the doors between it and your room, noting which side of the hall it’s on. In a dark or smoke-filled hallway, that count may be how you find your way out.
        • Keep your key, ID, and other must-grab items on the nightstand so you can leave fast if you have to.
        • Don’t open your door to anyone you can’t verify. If someone says they’re hotel staff, call the front desk to confirm before letting them in. Never invite strangers into your room.
        • Keep your key on you, don’t display it in public, and tell the front desk immediately if it goes missing.

        When You Head Out

        • Use the buddy system. Walk in pairs at night on nearby streets and in parking lots.
        • Going out alone? Tell a crewmember where you’re headed and when you expect to be back. If you’re not staying at the crew hotel, leave your contact info and location with someone.
        • Never assume an unfamiliar area is safe to walk or run. Wear practical shoes, skip the earbuds, and keep your head up—stay aware of your surroundings.

        Getting To And From The Hotel

        • Your assigned transportation provider is listed in your trip information.
        • Buckle up if the van or shuttle has seat belts, and mind your footing when getting in and out. If you need a hand, ask a fellow crewmember.

        Watch Your Drink

        Drink spiking or slipping a drug into someone’s beverage or food is a real risk, and the substances used are often colorless, odorless, and tasteless. A few habits go a long way towards stopping this from happening:

        • Order directly from the bartender or server, and watch your drink being made when you can.
        • Never leave a drink or food unattended. If you walk away from it, get a fresh one.
        • Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know well.
        • Know your limits. The more you drink, the harder it becomes to recognize if something isn’t right.
        • If it looks, smells, or tastes off, don’t finish it.
        • Stay with your crew and look out for one another.
        • For added safety, drink covers as well as GHB and Rohypnol detection test kits are available for purchase online. These products can provide an additional layer of protection when attending bars, clubs, concerts, or other social events where beverages may be left unattended.

        Take it seriously if you suddenly feel far more impaired than what you drank would explain: sudden dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, extreme drowsiness, nausea, or gaps in your memory. If you think your drink was spiked, tell someone you trust right away, get to a safe place, don’t try to drive, and seek medical care quickly. Some drugs clear the body within hours. If you believe a crime occurred, report it to the local police.

        If Something Happens

        For any safety concern involving your hotel or crew transportation, file a report through the MyCrewCare (API) app on your IMD and complete a Safety Report. That documentation is what lets us hold hotel properties and transportation vendors accountable and push for change.

        And you don’t have to carry a bad experience alone. Our AFA EAP Committee offers confidential support, resources, and referrals. You can reach the AFA EAP helpline anytime at (949) 470-0493 or (800) 424-2406.

        Trust your instincts, look out for one another, and don’t hesitate to act if something doesn’t feel right. Safe travels!

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), EAP/Professional Standards Committee, Hotel Committee

        Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – July 2026

        July 23, 2026 13:00

        On Wednesday, July 15, our Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) representatives met virtually to discuss ongoing safety concerns, operational challenges, policy updates, and workplace improvements impacting Flight Attendants across the operation. Representing you at the meeting were Deb Wallstrom (ANC), David Lake (SEA), Kalin Lackey (PDX), Bradley Young (SFO and MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson), Kahea Alvarez (LAX pmHA), Carin Merritt (LAX pmAS), Bryce Sarmiento (LAX pmAS), Bri Shaw (LAX pmAS), Eva Gatus (SAN), Barron Lee (HNL), MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson Kerri Ruiz, and MEC ASHSC Chairperson Seth Heiple.

        The Committee met with several members of Inflight leadership and Safety management, including Heidi Stiley (Cabin Safety & Compliance Manager), Matthew Coder (Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager), Wendy Kong (Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager), Ken Hawkins (Inflight Duty Program Manager), Nicky Sagum (Manager of Safety Compliance), Lavesh Bhatia (Inflight Policy & Procedure Specialist), Shari Hinshaw (Manager of Inflight Policy & Procedures) and base management representatives Aron Kahn (LAX Manager of Base Operations) and Benito Pasia-Garcia (Director of Inflight Base Operations).

        The next scheduled Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee meeting will take place hosted by the SEA ASHSC on August 27

        Topics of Discussion

        The Committee reviewed several items when meeting with management. Some items discussed include (items which are Security Sensitive Information are not included):

        • Onboard Wheelchair Stowage: The Committee raised concerns that storing auxiliary supplies (gloves, soap, hand sanitizer) in the wheelchair compartment obstructs the space when the chair is removed, making re-storage difficult. Management is replacing the current wheelchair with a new design and will look at the stowage of other items in the 737 celling bins as part of this process.
        • Catering Consistency – Ice in G1: The Committee noted that ice stowed in the drawer in the G1 is leaking into the forward galley and flight deck during descent when no liner is used in the drawer. Management responded that this is a catering error and asked for Flight Attendant write-ups when liners are missing to support the case; a newsletter reminder was also issued recommending that ice be used first, as it causes issues when melted.
        • Broken Glass Disposal: With new glassware leading to increased breakage, the Committee discussed the need for a consistent, harmonized policy for safe disposal. Hawaiian carries a dustpan and whisk broom onboard; Alaska’s policy is less defined, though FAM language directs broken glass to be placed in a puncture-resistant bag. Management is working towards adding a dustpan and a whisk broom to the 737 fleet.
        • Required Briefings Communication: The Committee discussed instances of required briefings (CRS, UMs, 3-point) being missed prior to door closure. Management agreed to address cleaner cabin-ready communication and area-of-responsibility training through the cabin door closing working group.
        • Fumes in the LDMCR: A crew reported chemical fumes both during takeoff and later in flight in the lower crew rest area, with one crew member experiencing chest tightness and headache. Management is following up with Maintenance and Cargo to identify the source; Management emphasized that we can contact MedAire for assessment when we have symptoms.
        • Hot Beverage Temperature Safety: The Committee raised ongoing burn-risk concerns related to hot water and coffee temperatures. Management confirmed water temperature is regulated by a thermostatic switch, checked during scheduled overhaul inspections, and cannot be manually lowered without affecting brew quality. A new cup design compatible with tablet/cup holders is being launched; adding lids to cups was discussed, but will not be adopted at this time.
        • A321 Pneumatic Lav Door Closer: Reports indicate the pneumatic lav door closer, connected to the lav wall and folding door on the A321, may be being detached by cleaning crews and not reattached, causing the door to swing freely and creating a pinch/cut risk during reattachment. The fleet manager confirmed that cleaning staff should not be handling this mechanism and will send a reminder communication.
        • Fish Odor/Cargo Contamination Incident: There has been an uptick in the smell of rotting fish in aircraft cabins this summer, leading to air quality issues. The Committee asked for a standardized process for handling spills of this nature, better tools at all cargo-handling stations (not just HNL/SEA), and improved acceptance criteria for seafood when shipped.
        • Intelex Reporting System Issues: Multiple Flight Attendants reported login issues, lockouts, and app glitches, discouraging incident reporting. Management suggested utilizing the desktop version or emailing the crew can email inflightreports@alaskaair.com if the app doesn’t work.
        • Jumpseating Guidance (Boeing 737-700 Series Aircraft): The Committee identified unclear FAM language regarding jumpseater seat assignments on 737-700-series aircraft. Management agreed that clarification is needed and will work to update the manual with specific seating guidance.

        Things The Committee Is Working On

        1. Cabin Secure Procedures: After the addition of the cabin-ready concept for boarding door closure and adding a cabin secure compliance check after door arming, there hasn’t been a clear indicator for the FFA / A Flight Attendant to know that the cabin is secure. We’ve been working with Inflight Policy and Procedure to develop a better system to ensure the cabin is ready for surface movement and to eliminate the current confusion around the process.
        2. Bulletins and Alerts Timing: Effective June 24, management changed when Flight Attendants must review bulletins and alerts. Per the manual, Flight Attendants must now ensure that all alerts, bulletins, and FAM revisions/EIBs are updated and read, and that required training is completed, after check-in but prior to boarding the aircraft. We are advocating that management restore the previous policy, requiring bulletins to be checked 24 hours prior to reporting for duty, which gave Flight Attendants adequate time to read and understand this information.

        We Want to Hear From You!

        If you’ve encountered any safety-related issues at work, you can help the Committee advocate for improvement and change by submitting a report:

        • pmHA: Use INTELEX to submit In-Flight Incident Reports (including fatigue and injury) and Hawaiian Safety Action Program (HSAP) reports.
        • pmAS: Use ReportIt! to submit FAIRs (including Fatigue reports), ASAP reports, and Employee Injury Reports (EIR).

        If you need clarification or assistance on what type of report to file, please get in touch with a member of your Local ASHSC.

        Your Local ASHSC is always ready to represent your voice to management. Please don’t hesitate to let us know about any issues or concerns you want us to bring forward. We would also love to hear any other feedback you may have for the Committee. You can find our contact information on the ASHSC page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Tagged With: committee meeting

        Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – May 2026

        May 29, 2026 13:00

        On Wednesday, May 20, our Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) representatives met virtually to discuss ongoing safety concerns, operational challenges, policy updates, and workplace improvements impacting Flight Attendants across the operation. Representing you at the meeting were Deb Wallstrom (ANC), David Lake (SEA), Kalin Lackey (PDX), Bradley Young (SFO), Bryce Sarmiento (LAX pmAS), Kahea Alvarez (LAX pmHA), Eva Gatus (SAN), Randy Rivera (HNL), and Kerri Ruiz (MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson).

        The Committee met with several members of Inflight leadership and Safety management, including Heidi Stiley (Cabin Safety & Compliance Manager), Nicky Sagum (Manager of Safety Compliance), Randy Katz (Managing Director of Inflight Safety Standards & Training), Benito Pasia-Garcia (Director of Inflight Base Operations), Lavesh Bhatia (Inflight Policy & Procedure Specialist), Shari Hinshaw (Manager of Inflight Policy & Procedures), and base management representatives Anu Lippert and Laurel Padure.

        The next scheduled Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee meeting will take place in virtually on Wednesday, July 15.

        Topics of Discussion

        The Committee reviewed several items when meeting with management. Some items discussed include (items which are Security Sensitive Information are not included):

        • Cabin Heat Events and APU Operations: The Committee discussed recent incidents of prolonged aircraft ground delays due to inoperative APUs during extreme heat. Concerns were raised regarding unsafe cabin temperatures, passenger comfort, and operational delays in returning to the gate. Management confirmed that APUs are expected to be running by D-10, and Flight Attendants were encouraged to use operational pauses and to submit FAIR/SHR reports whenever cabin temperatures become unsafe.
        • Meta Smart Glasses and Privacy Concerns: The Committee discussed concerns about the use of Meta smart glasses while on duty, including passenger privacy, recording capabilities, and operational distractions. Management advised that Revision 75 will prohibit Flight Attendant use of Meta glasses while working.
        • Emergency Equipment Accessibility: Several concerns were raised regarding retrofitted overhead emergency equipment locations on the 737-800 fleet. Flight Attendants reported difficulty accessing halon and water extinguishers, challenges viewing gauges during preflight checks, and improper bracket positioning impacting accessibility. Additional concerns included demo kits and carry-on baggage obstructing emergency equipment. Management requested continued FAIR reporting to establish trend data.
        • Extreme Cold Weather Evacuation Concerns: ANC representatives raised concerns regarding insufficient cold-weather uniform options during potential evacuations in extreme winter conditions. Discussion included FAA limitations on wearing bulky outerwear in jumpseats, lack of galley stowage space, and the need for additional guidance or training regarding cold-weather evacuation scenarios.
        • Hotel Van Safety Procedures: The Committee discussed safety concerns involving hotel transportation vendors requesting crew members to provide flight information before identifying themselves. Particular concern was raised for individual Flight Attendants arriving late at night. Management will coordinate follow-up discussions with hotel transportation providers regarding security expectations and procedures.
        • MAX 9 Trash Bin Design and Galley Trash Procedures: Representatives continued discussions regarding the MAX9 trash bin design, which allows trash and liquids to fall behind bins and creates sanitation concerns. Maintenance & Engineering advised that a retrofit project is planned for later this year. Additional discussion focused on current galley trash-handling procedures, including the operational practice of hanging trash bags in galleys, as well as concerns related to fire suppression and monitoring requirements.
        • Inoperative Seatbelt Sign MEL Events: The Committee reviewed recent events involving inoperative seatbelt sign switches and discussed alternate procedures when signs cannot be activated. Management reiterated that announcements currently serve as the approved mitigation procedure under MEL guidance.
        • Inaudible Flight Deck Announcements: Representatives discussed ongoing concerns about inaudible pilot PA announcements and difficulties hearing critical information while in the cabin. Management noted that this may primarily be a CRM issue, but agreed that additional review may be appropriate.
        • Safety Card Type Placards: Discussion continued regarding inconsistencies and missing safety card type placards onboard aircraft. Management reminded Flight Attendants to report missing placards through standard reporting channels so corrective action can be tracked.
        • Narcan and Overdose Response Discussions: The Committee discussed modernization of EMK/EEMK kits to potentially include nasal Narcan. Management acknowledged that many carriers are moving in this direction and confirmed the topic remains under review with MedAire and Safety leadership. Discussion also included training considerations, accessibility, storage, and maintenance requirements.
        • A330 Lavatory Flush Noise Concerns: Representatives raised concerns regarding excessive lavatory flush noise levels onboard the A330 fleet. Discussion included OSHA exposure thresholds, custom hearing protection programs, and possible reimbursement or support options for hearing protection devices.
        • PPE Use During Fume Events: The Committee discussed Flight Attendant concerns regarding the use of PPE, including carbon-layered masks, during fume events. Management stated there should be no issue with Flight Attendants utilizing appropriate PPE during qualifying exposure events and agreed additional follow-up may be necessary regarding onboard PPE availability and policy clarification.

        Things The Committee Is Working On

        1. New Power Bank Procedures: There were several instances last year of power banks going into thermal runaway on Asian carriers. Additionally, UL (Underwriter’s Laboratory), which tracks thermal runaway events on commercial aircraft, has documented an increase in events attributable to power banks. As a result, there are updates to regulatory guidance on how they should be limited, stowed, and used onboard the aircraft. The Committee has been gathering information and working with the company to develop new procedures, which will be rolled out soon at AAG.
        2. MAX 10 Galleys: In coordination with the Inflight Service Committee, we have been working with management and the galley manufacturer on the MAX 10 galley designs. Our focus has been on safety, optimizing workflow, crew stowage location, which can be accessed without being visible to passengers, and easily accessible emergency equipment
        3. Demo Kit Stowage: We are gathering pictures of demo kits that are in overhead bins without dividers, along with tail numbers, and are making a case to have dividers for all demo kit stowage in first class on the 737.

        We Want to Hear From You!

        If you’ve encountered any safety-related issues at work, you can help the Committee advocate for improvement and change by submitting a report:

        • pmHA: Use INTELEX to submit In-Flight Incident Reports (including fatigue and injury) and Hawaiian Safety Action Program (HSAP) reports.
        • pmAS: Use ReportIt! to submit FAIRs (including Fatigue reports), ASAP reports, and Employee Injury Reports (EIR).

        If you need clarification or assistance on what type of report to file, please get in touch with a member of your Local ASHSC.

        Your Local ASHSC is always ready to represent your voice to management. Please don’t hesitate to let us know about any issues or concerns you want us to bring forward. We would also love to hear any other feedback you may have for the Committee. You can find our contact information on the ASHSC page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Tagged With: committee meeting

        Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – March 2026

        March 26, 2026 17:00

        On Thursday, March 19, our AFA Local Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Bradley Young (SFO), Carin Merritt (LAX pmAS), David Lake (SEA pmAS), Deb Wallstrom (ANC), Eva Gatus (SAN), Kalin Lackey (PDX), and Kahea Alvarez (LAX pmHA). Also present were MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson Kerri Ruiz and MEC ASHSC Chairperson Seth Heiple.

        The Committee met with Jesse Sexton (Director of Inflight Training & Standards), Johanna Giese (Manager of Inflight Safety Programs), Kaija Risdal (Inflight Safety and Compliance Specialist), Kaliko Howell (Manager of Inflight Policy and Procedure), Heidi Styley (Cabin Safety Manager), Matthew Coder (Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager), David Stewart (Manager of Security Operations), Sabrina Aguirre (Inflight Base Manager), and Kristina Garcia (Inflight Supervisor).

        The next scheduled Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee meeting will take place in Portland on May 20, 2026.

        Topics of Discussion

        The Committee reviewed several items when meeting with management. Some items discussed include (items which are Security Sensitive Information are not included):

        • Fume Events, Procedures, and CRM: The ASHSC continues to raise concerns about recurring fume events on the A330 and A321 aircraft (described as “stinky socks” and “electric/cleaner/new shoe” odors), with inconsistent response across departments. The ASHSC is calling for focused training on in-flight and post-landing procedures, and the importance of CRM. Management acknowledged significant work is needed to align pmHA and pmAS workgroups on air quality.
        • Blocking Egress During Deplaning: A trend has been identified of Fleet Service bags, trash bags, and crew luggage being placed on the floor in front of the R1 door during deplaning, which can block the view of the girt bar during disarming verification on deplaning or catch on the girt bar causing it to be dislodged from the door clips. The ASHSC recommends a bulletin with diagrams or photos illustrating the issue. Management committed to a yearly reminder bulletin on the and communication with Fleet Service.
        • Window Shade Policy: The ASHSC believes the current window shade policy creates potential safety concerns by reducing situational awareness during taxi, takeoff, and landing. We have asked management to align policy with the pmHA practice of requiring shades open for these phases of flight, including a passenger PA notification and a Safety Risk Assessment (SRA). Management indicated no final decision has been made, and that they are currently leaning toward passenger choice. 
        • Window Shade Position Descriptions: For aircraft other than the 787, the ASHSC recommends say “open/close” instead of up/down as it is a more accurate description. Management will implement this change in a future revision.
        • Blocking Egress During Boarding: Some Flight Attendants are using the galley bar at R1 on the 737 during boarding to prepare pre-departure beverages. The ASHSC recommends a bulletin reminder about this practice and updated FAM language to clearly indicate that this is not permitted since it blocks egress at R1. Management agreed to add language to the FAM.
        • 2L Door Opening Procedures – A330: The current boarding door opening procedure on the A330 and 787 involves significant back-and-forth between the FFA and FA2, leading to inconsistencies and crew defaulting to previous or hybrid procedures. The ASHSC recommends streamlining the procedure. Management acknowledged this is already on their radar—noting that some procedures were written with single-aisle aircraft in mind, while the 2L door is the primary boarding door for widebodies. Work is ongoing, but no firm completion date has been set.
        • Cabin Status Call – A FA/FFA verbal Cross-Check: Current policy does not require the A FA/FFA to verbally confirm door armed/disarmed status during the Cabin Status Call, resulting in a breakdown of procedural consistency and a reduction in safety, particularly on aircraft where one Flight Attendant is responsible for disarming two doors. The ASHSC recommends going back to the previous pmAS policy of having the A FA/FFA to also verbalize that doors are armed/disarmed and cross-checked during the Cabin Status Call as this step reinforces the visual check. Management agreed to review the procedure and is leaning towards accepting the recommendation.
        • Exit Row Placards for the 161-Seat Configuration: The exit row briefing for row 18 on reconfigured 161-seat 737-800s is being missed. The ASHSC recommends adding seat placards as a reminder for both passengers and crew. This is also an ERC recommendation and would need to be referred to Cabin Interiors.
        • Charter Flight Flight Attendant Coordination: policy deviations have been noted in the charter operation. Management* has agreed to work with the ASHSC to identify enclose policy gaps, including practices like boarding 737s without a tail stand.
        • L1 Door Closure Procedure – Video Clarification: There is ambiguity in FAM 11.200 regarding the boarding door closure procedure, specifically, the term “jointly close.” Management has agreed to produce a new video, like the one for door opening, showing what the procedure should look like for both CSAs and Flight Attendants.
        • Demo Kit Location: Forward demo kits stored loosely in the last row of First Class can co-mingle with passenger bags, which can make it difficult to consistently find and access this piece of emergency equipment. The ASHSC again requests management install a divider in the overhead bin to keep the demo kit separated from COBs.
        • Service Cart Weight: Fully prepped service carts carrying both meals and beverages are heavy and difficult to maneuver in limited galley space, contributing to repetitive motion injuries and creating safety concerns as crew adapt to fit everything. Management will loop in additional stakeholders for further review and the ASHSC will coordinate with the Inflight Service Committee to develop an AFA joint recommendation to management on how to address this hazard.
        • Retrofitted 737-800 Aft Overhead Fire Extinguishers: Aft overhead water and Halon extinguishers in the retrofitted 737-800 aircraft are positioned too far back in the overhead bin for some Flight Attendants to effectively preflight or to access quickly in an emergency. The ASHSC recommends repositioning them to a more accessible location. Management conducted a comparison and found that these pieces of equipment in 737-800 bins sit approximately 2 inches deeper than the 737-700s due to bin dimensions and seat configuration differences but also confirmed there is no immediate fix planed.

        Things The Committee Is Working On

        1. European Flying Validation Flights and FAA Certification LOA: The ASHSC is coordinating AFA participation in validation flights for both 787 and 737 European flying. We are also working with our MEC on a Letter of Agreement (LOA) that will govern Flight Attendant involvement in future FAA certification activities, including the proving run flights and mini evacuations that will need to occur prior to cross-flying.
        2. Joint Emergency Procedures Development: The ASHSC continues to work with management on developing joint emergency procedures, which will be incorporated into transition training. The focus is on keeping change manageable for Flight Attendants while streamlining procedures and checklists were doing so would likely improve safety outcomes.
        3. New Reporting Tool Feedback: The ASHSC and other early adopters will soon have the opportunity to provide feedback on the first iteration of the new reporting tool being developed by management to replace Report It.

        We Want to Hear From You!

        If you’ve encountered any safety-related issues at work, you can help the Committee advocate for improvement and change by submitting a report:

        • pmHA: Use INTELEX to submit In-Flight Incident Reports (including fatigue and injury) and Hawaiian Safety Action Program (HSAP) reports.
        • pmAS: Use ReportIt! to submit FAIRs (including Fatigue reports), ASAP reports, and Employee Injury Reports (EIR).

        If you need clarification or assistance on what type of report to file, please get in touch with a member of your Local ASHSC.

        Your Local ASHSC is always ready to represent your voice to management. Please don’t hesitate to let us know about any issues or concerns you want us to bring forward. We would also love to hear any other feedback you may have for the Committee. You can find our contact information on the ASHSC page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Tagged With: committee meeting

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