What are aerotoxic fumes?

 

Jet engine oils contain synthetic chemicals of the Organo Phosphate (OP) group of compounds, added as anti-wear agents.

 

For instance, Mobil Jet Oil II (which is used by over 50% of jet engine manufacturers), is labelled as containing the OP Tri Cresyl Phosphate (TCP) – a well known neurotoxin.

     

This is just one of a cocktail of some 200 chemicals in the oil fumes, many of which are thought to combine in a synergistic way to create the dangerous aerotoxins.

 

Just as with Gulf War Syndrome and sheep dippers, these will not affect everyone, but can have a devastating effect on the 30% of the population who are susceptible and maybe 5% of the population who are highly susceptible. At present, there is no way of telling who these people are although gene research should hopefully provide the answers in the near future. Many eminent clinicians and scientists are concerned about this issue, which has been brought to the attention of the authorities; yet nothing has so far been done to stop the contamination of cabin air supply.

  

A 2006 study by Dr Mackenzie - Ross of UCL estimated that up to 196,000 passengers may have been exposed to fumes on board aircraft in that year, on UK flights alone.

 

This may explain many mysterious health problems that passengers and crews experience, especially after flying.