Concern about a recurring problem with cabin air quality in the British Aerospace 146 series has resurfaced following an incident in which both pilots of a British European BAe 146 were almost disabled by fumes. The incident has prompted the UK Civil Aviation Authority to issue an airworthiness directive (AD) that requires operators of the 146-100, -200 and -300 to inspect engine oil seals, the auxiliary power unit, the environmental conditioning system jet pump and air conditioning pack for signs of oil contamination.
In the 5 November 2000 incident, the crew and passengers noticed an oily smell. The co-pilot became nauseous, had trembling hands, was unable to fit his own oxygen mask and had trouble speaking. Meanwhile, the captain's vision became impaired, according to a CAA mandatory occurrence report. After an autopilot approach to Birmingham, UK, the aircraft landed safely and both pilots were hospitalised. The Air Accident Investigation Branch is carrying out a field investigation.
The issue is high profile in Australia where 146 cabin crew are taking civil actions for alleged damage to their health after cabin air contamination.
Source: Flight International
