Air Force Aircraft Mechanics and Asbestos: A Dangerous, Potentially Deadly Combination

Many members of the military were exposed to asbestos and developed the deadly form of cancer known as mesothelioma as a result – regardless of the branch in which they serve. Certain personnel were at a higher risk for asbestos exposure, such as Air Force aircraft mechanics. Here are a few of the reasons this exposure occurred.

A Risky Occupation

Air Force aircraft mechanics routinely worked on military planes, coming into contact with asbestos while working on parts such as brake pads, tires, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, batteries and many others. In addition to the asbestos they encountered working with aircraft components, they also worked in hangars, airfields and repair stations that were constructed using the deadly material.

Aircraft mechanics were at an especially high risk for exposure because many components used asbestos due to the material’s ability to protect planes from heat and fire. Even today, decades after asbestos use was discontinued in most military applications, mechanics working on older planes are still in danger.

One of the most dangerous parts of an Air Force aircraft mechanic’s job – at least from an asbestos exposure standpoint – involves work on a plane’s brakes. In order to replace a brake pad, for example, a mechanic has to do a lot of back-and-forth tugging, putting him or her at a substantial risk of inhaling asbestos fibers that become airborne. Asbestos exposure in the Air Force is still a real danger many service men and women face today.

Your Legal Options

If you were an Air Force aircraft mechanic and developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible to take legal action and obtain compensation. At Baron & Budd, we will never sue the military. Instead, we take action against the asbestos companies responsible for the suffering of thousands of military men and women as well as civilians. Our lawyers will help file a mesothelioma VA claim and also pursue compensation from companies that manufactured the products with asbestos that exposed you to the carcinogen.