EPA Says Lead Emissions From Small Piston-Engine Aircraft Pose Health Danger

"WASHINGTON - The U.S Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday issued a final determination declaring that emissions from aircraft that use leaded fuel pose a danger to public health, following years of study.

Commercial aircraft use jet fuel, which does not contain lead. Aircraft that do use leaded fuel are typically small piston-engine planes that carry two-10 passengers and are around 45 to 47 years old.

"The science is clear: exposure to lead can cause irreversible and life-long health effects in children,” EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a statement announcing that the agency was finalizing a decision proposed in October 2022. ...

The EPA said it and the Federal Aviation Administration have begun "work to consider regulatory options to address lead emissions from aircraft engines.""

David Shepardson reports for Reuters October 18, 2023.

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"Lead Pollution From Small Planes Threatens Human Health, EPA Finds" (Washington Post)

Source: Reuters, 10/19/2023