OT Safety Bulletin

Doors

All doors, including baggage and service panel doors, should be correctly closed and secure before an aircraft departs. An open or lost door can lead to control difficulties, or in a worst-case scenario, loss of control. Items, or the door itself may damage the aircraft, create FOD or damage people or property on the ground. The reaction of any passengers can lead to further problems particularly in small aircraft.

After closing an aircraft door, it should be checked that it is correctly closed and secure. Pilots and apron staff should check the aircraft before departure. If ground handling staff are unsure if a door is closed or not because it did not feel right or does not look right, they must tell the pilot.

Items should be correctly and securely stowed to avoid doors being damaged which could then lead to them becoming unsecure. Pilots should report any issues with doors to Engineering, so they can rectify any issues.