Why flight attendants hate this photo
Passengers who are guilty of one of flight attendants' biggest pet hates could potentially face a fine if they continue to risk the safety of others during emergencies.
The NTSB recently concluded their investigation into the evacuation of a burning American Airlines jetliner at Chicago's O’Hare Airport in 2016 which saw dozens of passengers ignore calls to leave luggage onboard.
They highlighted the incident as one of four aviation emergencies in the US recently where the evacuation was hampered by passengers grabbing their belongings
“I have thought about [issuing fines]," Robert Sumwalt, chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), told the Chicago Sun-Times, following the suggestion from one flight attendant.
“People might be less inclined to worry about all their Gucci luggage.”
Mr Sumwalt says any decision on a new fine should lie with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with their responsibility regulating airports, airspace and airlines leaving them best placed.
The FAA failed to comment on the proposal and said they will review the NTSB's findings from the O'Hare investigation before taking any action.
Association of Flight Attendants president Sara Nelson believes existing law should be implemented instead of creating further fines.
“The FAA should use existing laws to crack down on passengers endangering themselves and countless others as they put computers, cosmetics and clothing ahead of human life," the union chief said.
“Apparently the threat of death by incineration fueled by thousands of gallons of jet fuel isn’t enough of a deterrent to stop passengers from taking time to grab carry-on bags during an emergency evacuation."
The FAA are able to pursue criminal charges and fines up to $250,000 “for interfering with the flight attendants’ ability to perform their duties, depending on the severity of the interference.”
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Yet most aviation experts say the likelyhood of this avenue being pursued is extremely low.
Ms Nelson and the union, which has 50,000 members, has called on the FAA to have a stricter stance when it comes to passengers' behaviour during emergencies.
An FAA official said the agency has sought civil penalties against more than 150 passengers in the past five years for interfering with a flight crew, but it’s unclear whether any of those incidents involved baggage.
Other suggestions to prevent luggage being taken with passengers in emergencies was to have an automatic lock for overhead luggage compartments however Ms Nelson said it could hamper their abilities at retrieving vital medical and safety equipment.
