Help me out, FlyerTalk Experts. Most of my AA long and short haul flights have the announcement, “The FAA requires that you may only use the lavatory in your ticketed cabin.” The last time I departed Shanghai, the pilot even made a lengthy and rather strict announcement. I’ve never had a problem with the rule, even if it might be made up.

Fast forward to to last week when I am on a flight to Phoenix (AA mainline). After the breakfast service (where the FA appeared to keep all the warm breakfast items for himself and his coworkers; another long story), the lead FA made the announcement, “I’ve finished my first class service, so anyone can use the first class lavatory if you want to. Just don’t stand by the first class seats, okay?” My first reaction was a three letter acronym starting with “W” and “T.” For the remaining 2.5 hours of the flight, there was an endless parade of coach passengers running through the first class cabin.

So, apart from the lousy FA, what are the true FAA rules regarding lavatories and ticketed class, if any? Google did not give me much help.

Thanks all.