Covid protocols could make aircraft unsafe, watchdog warns

Airlines have been warned that on-board disinfection measures could corrode sensitive flight equipment, and may “compromise airworthiness” if applied incorrectly. The caution, issued by the US FAAy, states that “the majority” of disinfectants which are effective against the Covid-19 virus “may not be suitable for use on an aircraft, except in very limited or localized application”. Many airlines use 'fogging' techniques to disinfect cabins, spraying disinfectant at regular intervals between flights – but the FAA warns that liquid may enter electrical systems. “Liquids can intrude into flight deck switches and seals. Excessive liquid intrusion can lead to electrical shorts in the near term and unexpected corrosion in the long term.” It continues: “[Aircraft] operators should approach the disinfection process similarly to any maintenance or repair action for which improper execution may compromise airworthiness.”<br/>