Military veterans were exposed to asbestos while working on, maintaining, or serving aboard military aircraft. Asbestos was used in various components, such as insulation, gaskets, brake linings, and fireproofing materials, putting veterans at risk of long-term asbestos-related diseases.
B-17 Flying Fortress
The B-17 Flying Fortress was used extensively during World War II. Asbestos was used in insulation around the engines and in the aircraft's electrical and heating systems, exposing veterans involved in maintenance and service.
B-52 Stratofortress
The B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range bomber, had extensive use of asbestos in its engines, heat-resistant materials, and brake linings. Veterans working on these components during service were at risk of inhaling harmful asbestos fibers.
C-130 Hercules
The C-130 Hercules transport aircraft used asbestos in its engine insulation and brake pads. Airmen who performed maintenance on these components were exposed to asbestos fibers, increasing their risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses.
F-4 Phantom II
Asbestos was used in the F-4 Phantom II fighter aircraft for insulation and fireproofing in its engines and cockpit area. Veterans working on these parts faced significant exposure to toxic asbestos fibers.
F-14 Tomcat
The F-14 Tomcat, a carrier-based fighter aircraft, used asbestos in various components, including brake linings and engine insulation. Personnel working on or around these parts during service were at risk of asbestos exposure.
A-10 Thunderbolt II
The A-10 Thunderbolt II, known for its durability in combat, contained asbestos in its engine compartments, fireproofing materials, and thermal insulation. Maintenance personnel who worked on these parts were exposed to asbestos fibers.
F-16 Fighting Falcon
Asbestos was used in the F-16 Fighting Falcon in engine insulation and electrical systems. Veterans involved in the maintenance of these areas were exposed to asbestos fibers, which later led to health issues like mesothelioma and lung cancer.
C-141 Starlifter
The C-141 Starlifter, a military cargo aircraft, contained asbestos in the insulation around the engines and airframes. Veterans working on the aircraft’s maintenance were exposed to asbestos fibers, increasing their risk for developing asbestos-related diseases.
B-1B Lancer
The B-1B Lancer, used for strategic bombing, had asbestos components in its engine insulation, brake pads, and other high-temperature areas. Airmen maintaining these parts were exposed to asbestos, leading to long-term health risks.
KC-135 Stratotanker
Asbestos was used in the insulation of the KC-135 Stratotanker’s engines and other heat-resistant areas. Veterans maintaining or repairing these aircraft parts were exposed to harmful asbestos fibers, contributing to mesothelioma and other lung diseases.
History of U.S. Military Use of Asbestos on Aircraft
Asbestos was commonly used in U.S. military aircraft from the 1930s to the 1970s due to its fire-resistant and heat-insulating properties. It was incorporated into many aircraft components, putting military personnel at risk of exposure during maintenance and repairs. The long-term health effects of asbestos exposure, including mesothelioma and lung cancer, are now widely recognized, affecting veterans who worked on or around these aircraft.
Asbestos-Containing Products in U.S. Military Aircraft
Aircraft Ceiling Tiles
Asbestos-containing ceiling tiles were used in military aircraft. Exposure occurred when these tiles were disturbed during repairs or routine maintenance.
Aircraft Flooring
Asbestos was used in aircraft flooring materials. Personnel were exposed when these materials were damaged or during flooring replacement in maintenance procedures.
Brake Pads
Asbestos was used in brake pads on military aircraft. Maintenance personnel were exposed during the replacement or servicing of the brake system.
Electrical Wiring Insulation
Asbestos was used to insulate electrical wires in military aircraft. Technicians were exposed during installation or repair of electrical systems.
Engine Components
Asbestos was used in thermal shields and insulation on aircraft engines. Exposure occurred during engine maintenance or repairs when asbestos materials were disturbed.
Fireproofing Materials
Asbestos was used in fireproofing materials in various parts of the aircraft. Exposure happened when these materials deteriorated or were disturbed during maintenance.
Gaskets and Seals
Asbestos-containing gaskets and seals in engine components exposed maintenance workers when these parts were replaced or repaired.
Heat Shields
Asbestos was used in heat shields on military aircraft. Exposure occurred during maintenance or removal of the shields, releasing harmful asbestos fibers.
Pipes and Piping Insulation
Asbestos was used to insulate pipes in military aircraft. Personnel were exposed when working on or repairing damaged insulation around pipes.
Thermal Insulation
Thermal insulation containing asbestos was used in aircraft components, particularly engines and exhaust systems. Maintenance personnel were exposed when handling or repairing these materials.
