NTSB Issues Urgent Recommendation to FAA Regarding Open-Door Passenger Flights

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued an urgent recommendation, designated as ERA18MA099 and labeled A-18-012, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This regulatory action targets the safety protocols governing open-door commercial passenger-carrying aircraft flights that utilize passenger harness systems. The NTSB is urging the FAA to prohibit these specific types of flights unless the involved harness systems meet strict new criteria. Specifically, the recommendation mandates that any such system must allow passengers to rapidly release the harness with minimal difficulty. The guidance explicitly states that passengers should not be required to cut or forcefully remove the harness in an emergency situation. This directive aims to ensure that safety equipment does not become a hindrance during critical moments of evacuation or distress for passengers on these unique flight operations.