Airlines Deploy Second Cockpit Barrier for Pilot Bathroom Breaks

American Airlines has begun using the Installed Physical Secondary Barrier (IPSB) to secure the flight deck when pilots leave for bathroom breaks. The IPSB has been installed on newly delivered aircraft since August 2025 and American started using it on June 18, 2026, becoming the second major US carrier to deploy the system after Southwest; retrofits of existing planes aren’t planned, so only a small portion of the fleet will have it for now. While intended to deter cockpit intrusions and satisfy safety recommendations, some observers question its overall impact, noting the reinforced doors and procedures already provide strong protection, with crew training now in place to operate the barrier.