The Federal Aviation Administration approves a 7 crew members team on new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Back in December 2024, it was revealed that American Airlines was seeking FAA approval to operate its new premium-heavy Dreamliners, known internally as the 787-9P, with a reduced minimum crew level of just seven.
Under this plan, there will be only one crew member at the rear set of doors, located at the back of the dense Economy Class cabin.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) has warned that the approval will compromise passenger and crew safety, as a single crew member may need to evacuate passengers from two wide-body exits.
The FAA clarified that the reduced crew level represents a legal minimum, not a mandate. Flights may still be staffed with eight attendants when available. However, should a crew member be unavailable—due to illness or logistical challenges—the aircraft can depart legally with seven.
