BBC radio programme exposed concern of toxic air on planes
BBC Radio 4’s File on 4 programme last night explored claims that pilots and cabin crew are exposed to toxic fumes during flights.
As a result of the broadcaster’s investigation, cabin crew union Unite is renewing pressure on airlines to take immediate action to prevent ‘aerotoxic fume events’.
The union is suing eight major airlines on behalf of more than 200 members who claim their health as been damaged as a result of being frequently exposed to toxic air while doing their job.
Unite says its case is expected to be heard in the High Court next year.
Assistant general secretary for legal services Howard Beckett said: "The airlines have got to stop buck passing and take immediate measures to stop toxic air flooding into cabins and cockpits.
"Airline staff are having their health damaged by being exposed to fume events and many have been forced out of the industry as a result.
"These injuries can result in life changing neurological symptoms with immunity systems irreparably damaged. In extreme cases these poisonous toxins have been found in staff post mortem.
"While Unite has launched legal action this can’t be the end of the matter. Airlines have to take responsibility for the health and wellbeing of their staff and customers and install filters and other measures to prevent future fume events with immediate effect."
Unite is holding a health and safety conference for members who have been affected and are concerned about the effects of toxic air.
The BBC progamme is available here.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
TAP Air Portugal to operate 29 flights due to strike on December 11
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
Airbnb eyes a loyalty program but details remain under wraps
Air Mauritius reduces frequencies to Europe and Asia for the holiday season