Pilots at risk from toxic gas
Numerous stories in the media today about the ongoing contaminated air scandal. The Aviation Minister Ms Karen Buck has now resigned.
Typical media story:
Pilots at risk from toxic gas
Sunday, 26th February 2006, 12:01
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LIFE STYLE EXTRA (UK) - Pilots have called for an inquiry over dramatic new evidence of gas fumes poisoning British cockpits.
In the past three years, there have been over 100 cases of fumes inside British aircraft, according to records of airline regulator the Civil Aviation Authority and confidential testimony from pilots.
In more than 40 of the incidents, it appears pilots who inhaled the gases were partially impaired while flying.
Many reported feeling sick and dizzy and needed oxygen masks. Some have admitted they made mistakes while taking off or landing.
In many cases, the fumes are caused by burning engine oil leaking into the ventilation system. The two planes worst affected are the BAE146 and Boeing 757, which are used by a string of international and regional airlines.
A University College London report has also suggested that up to 197,000 passengers are being exposed to contaminated air each year.
Now the British Airline Pilots Association is warning the Government that it is unacceptable that the safety of its members, cabin crew and passengers is being jeopardised.
Jim McAuslan, BALPA's general secretary, said today: "It's quite clear we have to get to the bottom of this urgently.
"All pilots need to get together and realise we have an emergency situation. The safety of pilots, cabin crew and passengers should be of paramount importance.
"What will happen otherwise is that people will become ill and a few pilots and cabin crew will have to retire early.
"The industry has largely ignored this but as these figures show, it is a real problem.
"This is something the government and airline regulator must start taking seriously. We urge all parties to work out a solution."
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