PFAS Contamination at Airports and Aviation Facilities
Airports and aviation facilities across the country have long relied on Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) for emergency response to fuel-based fires. Unfortunately, this widespread use has resulted in extensive contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of man-made chemicals now linked to serious environmental damage and human health risks. Despite growing evidence of the dangers, manufacturers of AFFF failed to warn airports and aviation personnel about the toxicity of their products — a failure that has triggered substantial legal action today.
AFFF Use at Airports
Since the 1970s, airports have been federally required to maintain stockpiles of firefighting foam capable of suppressing flammable liquid fires quickly and effectively. AFFF became the standard because of its superior ability to smother jet fuel fires, preventing reignition in critical moments. Consequently, airports used AFFF extensively, not only during live fire events but also in routine training exercises and equipment testing.
Over decades of use, significant quantities of AFFF were discharged directly onto airport runways, crash sites, testing areas, and maintenance facilities. Often, AFFF runoff entered nearby soil, groundwater, and surface water sources without containment or treatment, leading to persistent PFAS contamination that remains today.
Health and Environmental Risks
PFAS chemicals are resistant to degradation, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Once released into the environment, PFAS migrate into groundwater supplies, surface water bodies, and even municipal drinking water systems. Individuals exposed to PFAS — through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact — face increased risks of serious health issues, including kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver disease, thyroid disease, and other chronic illnesses. In 2020, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified PFAS as possible human carcinogens.
At airports, both first responders and maintenance crews have faced occupational exposure, while surrounding communities have been placed at risk through contaminated water supplies. Environmental studies now reveal widespread PFAS contamination at major and regional airports nationwide, underscoring the urgent need for remediation and accountability.
Legal Action for Airports Affected by PFAS
Keefe Law Firm has been at the forefront of PFAS litigation nationwide, representing firefighters, service members, municipalities, and other impacted groups since the formation of the AFFF Multi-District Litigation (MDL) in Charleston, South Carolina. We are now extending our representation to airports and aviation facilities facing environmental contamination due to AFFF use.
Airports, much like fire academies and municipal water suppliers, were never warned about the long-term environmental and health impacts of AFFF. They were sold a product touted as essential for public safety — without being told about the severe toxic consequences that would follow its use and disposal. Now, airports are facing significant liabilities associated with soil and groundwater remediation, testing, and potential claims from affected communities.
Keefe Law Firm is committed to helping airports pursue legal remedies against the manufacturers responsible for creating and marketing hazardous firefighting foams without adequate safety disclosures. Through litigation, airports may be able to recover remediation costs and secure funds necessary for protecting public health.
Contact Keefe Law Firm to Explore Your Legal Options
If you are a representative of an airport or aviatio888-416-0685n facility dealing with PFAS contamination from AFFF, it is critical to act promptly. Comprehensive site assessments, legal strategy development, and preservation of evidence are all essential to pursuing a successful claim.
Keefe Law Firm offers free, confidential consultations to airports and aviation centers impacted by PFAS contamination. Our experienced attorneys understand the complex intersection of environmental law, toxic tort litigation, and aviation regulations — and we are ready to fight for the justice and resources your facility deserves.
Contact Keefe Law Firm today to discuss your potential claim and learn how we can help you navigate this emerging and important area of litigation.