Originally Posted by
joseeantonior
Sure, toilets on board are not a DOT requirement. But having a safe environment sure is.
The fact that United has decided to put lavatories on board means they should abide by all rules. That said, I wouldn't want to enter a lavatory and catch an infection due to the biohazard presented by not being able to flush the toilet. Imagine the variety of illnesses you can get from getting in contact there.
United should either fix the lavatories or close them. Now, which one would be preferred? I'd say the fixing. Are they going to do anything if there are no complaints? I don't think so, probably FAs will just keep on putting sanitizer packs. And if United doesn't want to do something, it needs to be escalated.
Your raise fair points, but I think they are beyond the scope of the DOT's responsibility. I mean what's next, the DOT will need to make sur the ice maker used to supply the ice on board isn't moldy?
Regardless, this is an issue that should first be addressed with the operating carrier.