Zerograv, it's the oil, not the engines that is the main problem. Accusations of RR being the cause, even on consortium engines, are not helpful or reasonable.
It is an established fact that most aero oils contain TCP as an anti-wear additive and that it breaks down under temperatures of over 100degC or so into organophosphates, the effects of which have been well observed in the farming industry. Bleed air temperatures are well in excess of this temperature required for this to occur. This is commonly associated with a smell of dirty socks and is experienced on most aircraft from time to time - I have had that smell numerous times on 737s, typically descending at idle thrust below FL100.
Hydraulic fluid also causes similar problems if it migrates from the reservoirs up into the pneumatic manifold, and is associated with a smell of pear drop sweets.
Do a web search for "aerotoxic syndrome" It's nothing new and has been hidden and denied by the industry and authorities for decades. I see the denial as attempted murder, personally, and would like to see those in position to deal with it but who ignore it swing.
Last edited by smileandwaveboys; 7th Oct 2012 at 17:02.