The Airliner Cabin Environment and the Health of Passengers and Crew

Although poor air quality is probably not the hazard that is foremost in peoples' minds as they board planes, it has been a concern for years.

Passengers have complained about dry eyes, sore throat, dizziness, headaches, and other symptoms.

Flight attendants have repeatedly raised questions about the safety of the air that they breathe. The Airliner Cabin Environment and the Health of Passengers and Crew examines in detail the aircraft environmental control systems, the sources of chemical and biological contaminants in aircraft cabins, and the toxicity and health effects associated with these contaminants.

The book provides some recommendations for potential approaches for improving cabin air quality and a surveillance and research program. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 Environmental Control3 Chemical Contaminants and Their Sources4 Biological Agents5 Health Considerations Related to Chemical Contaminants andPhysical Factors6 Health Surveillance7 Air-Quality Measurement Techniques and Applications8 Surveillance and Research Programs on Cabin Air QualityAppendix A: Biographical Information on Committee MembersAppendix B: Building-Related SymptomsAppendix C: Relevant Federal Aviation RegulationsAppendix D: Additional Monitoring TechniquesAppendix E: Glossary