Are Aircraft Mechanics at Risk of Asbestos Exposure?

What You Need to Know About Asbestos in Airplanes

For decades, asbestos-containing materials were used on commercial and military aircraft in the United States and abroad. While many of these materials were phased out in the 1980s, aircraft mechanics continued to be unknowingly exposed to the harmful toxin for years and are at an increased risk for the development of asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma. 

At Bailey Cowan Heckaman, we represent individuals who were exposed to asbestos and contracted asbestos-related illnesses. We have secured multiple multi-million dollar recoveries for clients nationwide. If you are an aircraft mechanic and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free consultation. 

What Aircrafts Contain Asbestos?

Prior to the 1980s, a large number of both civilian and military aircraft used asbestos-containing materials. Studies show that asbestos was found in multiple components of the aircraft.

Aircraft components that may have contained asbestos:

• Brake housings, brake linings, and brake pads
• Asbestos blankets (used to prevent fires)
• Engine mounts, shields, and shrouds
• Insulation
• Gaskets and control valves
• Adhesives and epoxies
• Electrical systems

The use of asbestos-containing materials continued for years. Aircraft mechanics were unknowingly exposed to the dangerous substance putting them at an increased risk for serious health complications, including mesothelioma. 

Is Asbestos Still Present in Aircraft?

By the 1980s, many people were aware of the dangers of asbestos and stopped using products containing the toxic substance. However, many aircraft are used for decades. Depending on the type of plane, it may fly for 30 or more years. Older aircraft contain a significant risk for asbestos. Therefore, aircraft mechanics should take precautions when working on these aging machines.

What Are the Dangers of Being an Aircraft Mechanic?

Aircraft mechanics are presented with a number of on-the-job dangers each day. They may be exposed to fumes from the plane, such as carbon monoxide, or risk hearing loss. Many report respiratory issues or develop skin irritation from the chemicals they handle. 

If you service older aircraft, you may be at high-risk for asbestos exposure. For mechanics that worked on planes before the 1990s, they were likely exposed to the toxic substance. Tragically, it can take 20 or more years before symptoms of an asbestos-related disease develop. This means that many aircraft mechanics who were exposed to asbestos may just now be experiencing symptoms related to mesotheliomas, such as chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or shortness of breath. 

Should I Hire an Attorney If I Was Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?

If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness after working on airplanes, you need to consult with an attorney. It is now known that most aircraft contained asbestos, meaning that mechanics were routinely exposed to the substance. An attorney can help determine whether you have a valid legal claim and who can be held liable for your damages.

Diagnosed with Mesothelioma? Contact Our Office.

Are you an aircraft mechanic who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related condition? Contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We are dedicated advocates who work tirelessly to ensure that mesothelioma victims get the compensation they deserve.