Delta is replacing engines on Airbus aircraft to address toxic fumes issue

"Delta Air Lines said it is replacing auxiliary power units (APUs), a type of engine, on its Airbus aircraft to address toxic fume incidents that can harm airline crew and passengers. The airline confirmed to CBS News Thursday that its replacing engines on more than 300 of its A320s in an initiative that began in 2022. The airline did not comment on the cost of the undertaking, which is more than 90% complete."

"Breathing in the toxic engine emissions can lead to general nervous system problems, Dr. Robert Harrison, an occupational medicine specialist at the University of California San Francisco who has treated more than 100 flight crew members for exposure to fumes, told CBS News. Delta on Thursday said it is also exploring new synthetic turbine oils from different manufacturers for its engines."

"Reached for comment on the issue, United CEO Scott Kirby recently told CBS News that it is a matter he has "personally been focused on for over a decade." United has a "proactive maintenance program" that tracks the plane engine's oil consumption and oil pressure, and proactively replaces APU seals to prevent oil leaks and oil burns that would lead to fumes enteri"

Delta Air Lines is replacing auxiliary power units on its Airbus A320 aircraft after incidents in which APU oil leaks can allow toxic turbine fumes into the cabin air. Flight attendants have reported acute symptoms from breathing engine fumes, including severe distress during flights. The leakage problem is reported most commonly on the Airbus A320 family of narrowbody jets. Medical specialists say exposure to these emissions can cause nervous system problems and have treated more than 100 affected crew members. Delta is testing alternative synthetic turbine oils. United says it monitors oil consumption and proactively replaces APU seals to reduce leaks.

Read at Cbsnews