A320 PA volume - headset/ACP vs handset
The training department at my airline tells us not to make normal PA announcements using the pushbutton on the Audio Control Panel. They tell us to use the dedicated PA handset on the aft of the center console instead. They claim that the ACP method is too loud, so it should only be used for emergency announcements. (One instructor went so far to say the ACP has an additional amplifier.) They say that, instead, the dedicated PA handset should be used for commonplace announcements, due to its lower volume level.
However, I can find no reference for this in our manuals. Also, I have tested PA's both ways with other crewmembers in the back and they said that, not only was the ACP PA not louder, they thought it sounded better than the handset. What say you, Airbus experts? Is there any validity behind my company's guidance, or is it just a myth that won't seem to go away?
Last edited by Skepilot; 10th Dec 2019 at 16:24.