JetBlue pilot wins landmark compensation case against airline after getting ill from contaminated air

A pilot has won a case against Jetblue after being chronically exposed to contaminated air while flying an Airbus aircraft. Captain Andrew Myers flew with the US airline for 15 years before becoming ill after an “acute toxic inhalation” event in early 2017. The incident left Captain Myers with toxic encephalopathy (a neurologic disorder), neuro-cognitive disorder and visual problems, all of which are potentially permanent. The State of Oregon Workers’ Compensation Board ruled in favour of Captain Myers in a landmark ruling made on 31 July. The decision overturned denials from insurers that Myers was ill as a result of toxic fumes inhaled while flying, and means he will receive wage compensation for at least the next few years, plus be covered for all medical expenses. Historically, the aviation industry has strenuously denied that fumes and contaminated air on planes can cause illness, particularly to those exposed over a long period of time, such as pilots and cabin crew. “It’s the first case in the US to establish that the fumes that injured Myers are dangerous, though Myers is far from alone in his injuries,” said Glen Lasken, Myers’ attorney. “It’s a pretty ground breaking case. It’s a big victory for airline staff and passengers.”<br/>