Toxic fumes on airplanes spark renewed safety fears after crew illnesses reported

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Toxic fumes have been reported recently inside some airplane cabins — with the reports prompting renewed questions aboutpassenger and crew safety.

People have said they experienced unexplained odors, smoke or haze during flights — sometimes followed by sudden illness.

A recent Wall Street Journal report examined claims from pilots and flight attendants who said they experienced serious illnesses after reportedfume events. 

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Industry officials, however, have disputed any direct connection.

Several individual cases were highlighted inThe Journalreport, including that of a 54-year-old pilot who developed neurological symptoms after reporting fumes inside an aircraft cabin.

Child and parent seated on an airplane wearing seatbelts, with the adult covering their face during a flight.

Concerns about airplane cabin safety have emerged after recent reports of toxic fumes circulating during some flights.(iStock)

Airplane cabins can intensify the body’s reaction to airborne irritants, especially for people with respiratory conditions, Kenneth J.

“The symptoms that are going to be most common arecough, wheezing and other symptomsof inflammation of the airways,” Perry said.

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While reports of severe outcomes have drawn attention, Perry emphasized that most suspected exposures on airplanes involve irritants rather than substances likely to cause long-term harm.

Airlines have emphasized that unusual odors do not always indicate a safety threat.

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The first and most effective step in treating any suspected inhalation exposure, he said, is removing the individual from the environment and providing access to fresh air. 

In most cases, symptoms may improve once the exposure ends.

Smoke or haze visible inside an airplane cabin as passengers sit beneath overhead bins during a flight.

The most important step when inhalation exposure is suspected is removing the person from the affected area so he or she can breathe fresh air, a physician said.(iStock)

Conditions inside an aircraft can make symptoms feel more intense, Perry also noted. 

Airplane cabins are pressurized to the equivalent of about 8,000 feet of elevation, meaning oxygen levels are lower than on the ground.

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That lower oxygen concentration can worsen breathing symptoms, particularly for passengers with underlying respiratory conditions.Airway irritation caused by an irritant or toxin may feel more severe while flying, he said.

In rare cases in which long-term effects are suspected,follow-up care with a specialistsuch as a pulmonologist may be recommended, Perry noted.

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If people encounter an issue with an irritant or toxin on an airplane, Perry said it’s best to stay calm.

Federal Aviation Administration.

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Interior of a commercial airplane cabin with passengers seated in rows during a flight.

The Federal Aviation Administration requires commercial planes to be held to cabin air standards to safeguard passengers and crew members.(iStock)

The agency notes that rare mechanical issues can allow fumes to enter the cabin, but airlines are required toreport those incidents. 

The FAA investigates each case and ensures repairs are made before the aircraft returns to service.

airlines including Deltahave replaced or upgraded equipment following reported cabin fume incidents, underscoring efforts to address air quality concerns.

Airlines have also emphasized that unusual odors do not always indicate a safety threat.

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“Different odors can arise for a variety of reasons and are a normal part of operating and maintaining aircraft,” a

 

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