Airsupport

i don't know about popping open in flight, but the door can obviously fall off.

Jet's Door Falls Off During Takeoff - Denver News Story - KMGH Denver

Airsupport

i do think though that it would be impossible to open the door inflight. the door has a plug type pressure valve built into it that swings inward. remember when you lift that handle that pressure release valve opens at the same time. i would imagine that while in flight there is enough pressure on it to keep it from opening, and inturn jamming the lever in the down position.

Seattlecfi

The negative pressure relief valves prevent the door from opening in flight.

Airsupport

ok so i dug out the ole systems manual. the "door vent flap" opens and closes when the exterior or interior handle is closed or opened. this flap opens inward and acts as a pressurized plug when the aircraft is pressurized.


so i am going to go with the door would be nearly impossible to open inflight because of all the pressure that is being exerted on the door vent flap.

MesaFA

Wow.... I never imagined this would prompt such a wide response! Thanks guys, it's been really informative! So... from what I've gathered, it would be hard because the door vent flap has to open inward. Does this apply equally to the service door?

Also, ignoring the fact that you couldn't manipulate the handle, it would be more than possible for the door to come open if the pins (for whatever reason, either defective or not closed properly) were not properly installed?

Gives me something to think about while I sit jammed between the two doors... =)

Seattlecfi

The service door is a plug door, it opens in-then-out. The MCD has negative pressure relief valves which prevent the handle from being moved up with the A/C pressurised.

rickair7777

That's good to know.

Blueskies21

Ok I normally don't buy into the "this is a security issue" bs especially on forums but I think in this case it doesn't serve our collective good to theorize that cabin doors could be opened in flight. That's probably me being paranoid but just doesn't seem like a good idea. An in depth discussion of aircraft systems is better suited for pilots lounges if you really get that bored.... Lets just stick with "you can't open it and why would you want to try"

BlueMoon

Don't agree

MesaFA

Point taken... the thought didn't even cross my mind. Sorry!