There are plenty of unpleasant odors in the cabin. Most are harmless, but some are toxic, so it is important to be informed. Two types of fumes (unpleasant, odorous, and potentially toxic compounds) that can contaminate the air supply are engine oil and hydraulic fluid. It’s important to pay attention to the presence of unusual, […]

  SICK FROM POOR AIRCRAFT AIR QUALITY? REPORT IT – EVEN IF YOU THINK YOU’LL BE BETTER SOON AND CALL AFA-CWA FOR HELP Many different types of chemicals can contaminate the cabin air, including exhaust fumes, deicing fluid, electrical fumes, and jet fuel. All of these can make you sick. AFA-CWA is especially concerned if […]

Fumes onboard? Overview and practical advice for AFA-CWA members   Have you read the recent high-profile media reports about crews getting sick from breathing toxic fumes (unpleasant, unexplained odors) inflight? AFA-CWA has long been a leader among unions in working to address this complex and difficult problem of fumes onboard, which the industry has tried […]

Answers to frequently asked questions: Onboard Exposure to Smoke/Fumes Prepared by: Judith Anderson AFA-CWA Air Safety, Health, & Security Dept. judith@AFAnet.org — 206-932-6237 What are the possible sources of smoke and fumes in the cabin? There are many sources of smoke, haze, fog, and odors (fumes) in the cabin and flight deck. In-cabin sources include […]