Flight Crew Last 90 Days 240; Flight Crew Total 22000; Flight Crew Type 6000
Other / Unknown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Illness / Injury
General None Reported / Taken
Aircraft; Company Policy; Human Factors
Flight Attendant was severely injured by a fallen liquor cart. I would like to bring to the attention of the FAA the inherent instability of the galley carts and ease with which they can be pushed over. While investigating the area of the back galley; it was apparent to me that the floor was irregular with deep seams. [Some] carts are much lighter than [other] galley carts along with [some] being excessively worn and unstable. In addition the liquor carts are loaded very top heavy. The top positions consist of ice and soda bins; all of which are much heavier than the liquor mini's and other miscellaneous items in the lower bins. [Some] carts themselves are much lighter than [other] galley carts which make them less stable. With the wheels remaining on the floor; one can flex the cart side to side by as much as six inches. The wheels play a role in the ease with which the cart may be tipped over. When the wheels are facing to the sides of the cart; the cart is much more easily pushed over. Lastly; another factor is the aircraft's pitch and roll characteristics. The pitch at the time was approximately three degrees nose up (Mach .78). I am unaware of any turns at the time of the accident. A combination of all the above factors; make it extremely easy to tip the cart onto its side. I can push the cart over with very little effort; and by pushing with only with my index finger.
An Air Carrier Captain reports a severe Flight Attendant injury due to a liquor cart tipping over in flight. He believes the carts are poorly designed and loaded in a top heavy condition. This condition can easily lead to carts tipping over.