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A recent investigation by The Wall Street Journal has revealed a pattern of toxic fume events aboard commercial aircraft where air contaminated by chemicals such as fuel, hydraulic fluid, and lubricating oils seep into the cabin’s air supply. 

These leaks occur due to a design element known as ‘bleed air’ in which the air that you breathe is pulled through the aircraft’s engine.  Oils can enter the air when seals wear out, where they are vaporized by the heat and release a number of toxic compounds into the air that is then circulated into the aircraft cabin. This ‘bleed air’ system is featured on nearly every commercial aircraft - with the Boeing 787 a notable exception.

Though airlines and manufacturers often describe fume events as rare, the FAA has recorded thousands of reports since 2010, with certain aircraft models like the Airbus A320 seeing a notable increase in recent years.

Passengers and flight crews have described chemical, nail-polish-remover-like odors filling the cabin, resulting in sudden nausea, breathing difficulties, and disorientation.

In more serious cases, crew members have developed long-term neurological conditions and even suffered traumatic brain injury.

Potential Injuries from Toxic Fume Exposure

The health risks associated with fume events vary, but they can be significant. Short-term effects may include headaches, coughing, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating. However, these events have also been linked to more severe long-term injuries, such as:

• Respiratory problems such as chronic coughing and airway irritation.
• Neurological issues, including memory loss, tremors, confusion, and impaired vision.
• Damage to the central nervous system
• Traumatic brain injuries and other serious conditions in crew members were repeatedly exposed over time.
  

Passengers and crew members may also face elevated risks if they are seated near the source of contamination or if they frequently travel. Many cases go unreported or are misdiagnosed, which means some victims may never realize their symptoms are linked to an in-flight exposure.  However, according to an occupational medicine specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, these injuries are absolutely real.  He claims to have treated over 100 aircrew for injury from toxic exposure on a flight, including damage to the central nervous system.

When to Seek Legal Help

If you or a loved one suffered unexplained health problems during or after a flight, it may not be a coincidence. An attorney with experience in aviation and toxic exposure cases can:

• Investigate thoroughly by gathering flight records, maintenance logs, and medical evaluations to determine if a fume event occurred.
  
• Connect medical evidence to your exposure, ensuring your symptoms are properly documented by qualified experts.
  
• Identify liable parties such as airlines, manufacturers, or maintenance providers.
  
• Pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by the exposure.

Cases like this can be extremely difficult.  However, Singleton Schreiber has the experience and resources to investigate whether your injuries may be linked to design flaws or inadequate maintenance, and to advocate strongly on your behalf.

Contact Singleton Schreiber Today

This is an evolving situation and Singleton Schreiber is monitoring it closely and investigating the reports.

If aircraft manufacturers and airline operators were aware of this health and safety risk and did nothing to fix or prevent it, they should be held accountable.  A lawsuit can not only secure compensation for those who have been injured, but help make air travel safer for future passengers. 

If you believe you’ve been harmed by toxic fumes during a flight, call Singleton Schreiber today.

Our team is here to help you investigate what happened, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free consultation.