Galley curtain closure
Jul 21, 2018, 12:05 am
#1
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Galley curtain closure
Has anyone else noticed, at least anecdotally, increased closure of the galley curtain, even on domestic flights? I've flown between Los Angeles–Honolulu six times in the last month as well as thrice between Los Angeles–Austin. In each instance, on varying 757 as well as A319 aircrafts, the galley curtains were closed, even during the daytime. I don't remember seeing this before on domestic flights.
Jul 21, 2018, 6:40 am
#2
Join Date: Nov 2011
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I remember something about curtains not being allowed to block the view of the cockpit door, so I'm assuming you are talking about galley "side" curtains. My only thought is that the curtains allow First Class to be darker for sleeping.
Jul 21, 2018, 7:30 am
#3
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US airlines don't allow curtains in the aisle that can't be seen through. Strange as all other airlines seem to get along fine. Including not making every one sit down when pilot wants to take an 1, 2, or if they're a Boov a 3.
Jul 21, 2018, 4:16 pm
#5
Join Date: Nov 2011
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Jul 21, 2018, 4:20 pm
#6
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Seattle, WA
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All other airlines didn't have their aircraft used as weapons to be flown into the side of a skyscraper. While I think the U.S. airlines may overdo it a little, given their experience, I think their overly cautious attitude can be forgiven. It can't be that much of an inconvenience to remain seated for a few minutes while the pilots pee.
Jul 21, 2018, 4:54 pm
#7
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 1,884
It's funny you mention this today. I flew SLC-LGB and back last week, on SkyWest E175s and the galley curtain was closed both times. I wondered about it because it just looked like it was in the way while the FA was running back and forth during beverage service.
Jul 21, 2018, 9:25 pm
#9
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Will see if SEA-LAS will be the same next week.
Jul 21, 2018, 10:26 pm
#11
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: CONUS
Posts: 947
I've noticed this extensively on OO and CP operated flights. Flared up the last 6-9 months to the point of being routine. Can't say I've noticed it on DL but me's thinks there have been some training changes or service standard changes as it pertains to the curtain that closes off the forward galley.
Jul 22, 2018, 1:18 pm
#12
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All other airlines didn't have their aircraft used as weapons to be flown into the side of a skyscraper. While I think the U.S. airlines may overdo it a little, given their experience, I think their overly cautious attitude can be forgiven. It can't be that much of an inconvenience to remain seated for a few minutes while the pilots pee.
Regardless, if it was only a couple minutes, fine. However they roll the cart out, wait, pilot comes out, chats, chats more, finally goes to restroom, chats more, goes back, then you wait for next pilot to come out and repeat. I can't remember it taking less than half hour recently. All the while no lav for front cabin to use. No service being provided, etc... OALs were just as effected that day, they fly in US airspace, but don't do this silliness. Some won't even allow front cabin passengers to stand up.
There's just no reason for it.
Jul 23, 2018, 10:01 pm
#13
Join Date: Mar 2010
Programs: DL PM, Bonvoy Gold
Posts: 8,414
I would be really happy if this was a new memo/service directive sent to FAs. The galley lights can be VERY bright, especially when the cabin is dark, and it's really not nice if you are trying to watch TV or use a computer. If you are close enough and at the right angle, the lights come through eye masks when trying to sleep. The galley appropriately has bright lights for prepping and other work, while the cabin is intended to be calm and, on many flights, rather dark.