Carbon Monoxide on Airlines
We do not know where the carbon monoxide that killed our dog came
from. We can only speculate. If Air Canada knows, they have not told
us. It is not known how common carbon monoxide poisoning on airlines is.
It is thought to be rare. It may be far higher than we know. It appears
there is an alarming lack of monitoring. If levels are not measured, then
airlines can deny the carbon monoxide is there.
Interestingly and importantly, there is good scientific proof that airborne toxins, including carbon monoxide, are a major byproduct of jet engines and their lubricating oils. There is also concern that the toxic air is taken in as a part of the circulating air supply.
3 papers on this I will mention and link to but I do not have the publisher's permission at this time to include the text. They are listed in the November 2006 correspondence to CAIRS. A presentation at BALPA (British Airline Pilots Association) meeting in London in 2005 presents some alarming findings. This is a good summary on this whole topic. It is obvious after reading this that monitoring for carbon monoxide should be instituted.
There has been a movie made about this subject called “Wecome Aboard Toxic Airlines” which is A Fact Not Fiction Films Production (not out yet as of April 2007) that says far more about this subject. It also includes a section on Sila’s story.
The following websites are good links for anyone concerned about toxins on airlines:
www.dftenterprises.com
www.welcomeaboardtoxicairlines.com
www.toxicairlines.com
www.toxicfreeairlines.com
and, the Aerotoxic Association www.aerotoxic.org
is the new international support network that will help those who are concerned
about the effects of contaminated air.