Aerotoxic Syndrome

Flying up 30,000 feet in the air is enough to make anyone feel a little dizzy, but no one who boards a commercial flight signs up to become incoherent, nauseated, or sick, as a result of their journey.

Unfortunately, that is the reality for thousands of pilots, flight attendants, and even some passengers who develop aerotoxic syndrome after toxic air exposure mid-flight. Whether you are an employee or a passenger, if you fly often, it makes sense to learn more about fume events and how they could impact your health.

Since an airplane requires a supply of pressurized air at high altitudes, there are compressors located in the jet engine with dry and wet sides. The dry side helps in the supply of oxygen. Pressurized air, called ‘bleed air,’ is extremely hot and is passed through an air-conditioning pack and air filter before it is recirculated into the cabin and cockpit. On the other hand, the wet side of the compressor is designed to act as an exhaust system. Most jet airplanes contain controlled leakage devices that release a certain amount of toxic fumes into the cabin air. When the seals get too leaky, toxic air fumes mix with the air supply.

Other common causes include kerosene fumes, insecticides, carbon monoxide, flame-retardants, and disinfectants (further popularized due to Covid-19 protocols).

In 2011, an airline employee suffering from aerotoxic syndrome successfully reached a settlement with Boeing Co. Since then, there have been several court victories. Congress is also considering legislation to require airlines to implement airplane sensors to help improve air quality in cabins and prevent aerotoxic syndrome.

Health issues are often complicated, and aerotoxic syndrome is no different. The symptoms range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the length of exposure to toxic cabin air and the level of toxicity in the air. Here are some of the most commonly reported symptoms:

• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Memory loss
• Loss of consciousness
• Trembling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heart palpitations
• Chest tightness
• Breathing problems
• Headaches
• Loss of balance
• Brain damage
• Toxic encephalopathy
• Migraines
• Psychiatric symptoms and mental changes
• Depression and anxiety

If you experience these symptoms and suspect they were caused by exposure to toxic fume, then you should seek out medical care as soon as possible. Note that it may even take weeks for the symptoms to appear in some patients.

If you experience a toxic fume event and later fall ill with aerotoxic syndrome, then you will likely incur losses including medical bills and decreased wages for any time off work.

Airline companies have a legal duty to protect both passengers and staff. If you believe it has failed to do so, then you can undertake the legal process of filing a lawsuit against the airline. You should collect evidence supporting your injuries, your losses, and your diagnosis. You will also need to prove the airline was negligent. If the lawsuit is successful, then you will be compensated for your medical expenses and similar losses in a settlement or jury verdict.

Remember that aerotoxic syndrome can happen after just one flight and one fume event. If you fly frequently, then your probability of meeting with a fume event is higher. Exposure to multiple fume events can wreak havoc on your health and life.

The good news is that you might be able to recover some of your financial loss if the airline is deemed negligent in court. MedFault’s network of lawyers has ample experience representing clients with aerotoxic syndrome symptoms. They can help maximize the compensation you can recover and counsel you on the best legal approach. When you are ready to consult with an attorney about your situation, request a case evaluation with our office.