Toxic Cabin Air

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To make flying at high altitudes comfortable for staff and passengers, a supply of warm, compressed air is needed. In most modern aircrafts, this supply comes from a plane’s jet engine using a process known as ‘bleed air’, which is then mixed with recirculated cabin air.

Currently, the only aircraft model that does not bleed air from its engines is the Boeing 787.

Due to the design of the bleed air system, fumes and chemicals make their way, often undetected, into the aircraft cabin through the ventilation system. If a significant release of chemicals occurs through the seals, it causes a ‘fume event‘.

Breathing in toxic cabin air on an aeroplane can cause a number of health issues.

Exposure to toxic cabin air (sometimes known as 'aerotoxic syndrome') is most commonly associated with cabin crew staff but it can affect anyone travelling on an aeroplane. Frequent flyers are most at risk because there is more chance of repeat exposure to harmful toxins.

Common signs of a fume event include:

• A petrol-like or musty smell in the cabin air
• A bluish haze or misting of the air
• A high number of people suddenly coughing
• Passengers or staff feeling unwell or falling ill shortly after flying

Commonly reported symptoms of exposure to toxic cabin air include:

• Sore throat and cough
• Nose bleeds
• Migraine headache
• Gastro-intestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
• Muscle aches
• Rashes or itchy skin
• Fatigue
• Breathing difficulties
• Sudden rise in blood pressure

Commonly reported neurological symptoms of exposure to toxic cabin air include:

• Depression
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Confusion and cognitive dysfunction
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks

^Above information taken from https://www.unitelegalservices.org/services/toxic-cabin-air 25th October 2025. 

1. Speak with the NHS on 111 or visit your local hospital A&E Department to follow the "NHS Care Pathway for Patients Exposed to Fumes on Commercial Aircraft" 
2. Check company guidance for "Smell Events" on DocuNet
3. Contact our Health & Safety Rep using our "contact us" form to let them know what has happened. https://ezyunite.co.uk/contact-your-reps
4. Ensure every crew member has completed a CSR via SafetyNet within 72 hours of the event happening.  
5. Register the event on Unite Legal's "Fume Event Register" https://www.unitelegalservices.org/services/toxic-cabin-air
6. Contact Unite Legal to discuss a potential claim.