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Passive smoking on commercial airline flights
1National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Bethesda, MD 20892.
JAMA
|February 10, 1989
Summary
Air travel exposes passengers and crew to nicotine, even in nonsmoking areas. Higher smoke exposure during flights correlates with increased urinary cotinine and reported symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure remains a concern in enclosed public spaces.
- Aircraft cabins present unique challenges for air quality due to ventilation systems and passenger/crew proximity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify in-flight nicotine exposure in commercial aircraft.
- To assess the relationship between nicotine exposure, cotinine levels, and self-reported symptoms in passengers and flight attendants.
Main Methods:
- Nine subjects (5 passengers, 4 attendants) were monitored on four commercial flights.
- Personal exposure monitors measured nicotine levels; urine samples assessed cotinine (nicotine metabolite) for 72 hours post-flight.
- Symptom self-reports and perceptions of smokiness/annoyance were collected.
Main Results:
- Nicotine exposure varied significantly, with some nonsmoking areas showing high levels.
- Flight attendants in nonsmoking areas were exposed to ETS.
- Urinary cotinine levels confirmed nicotine absorption in passengers and attendants.
- Higher smoke exposure correlated with higher cotinine levels and increased eye/nose symptoms.
- Perceived smokiness and annoyance were linked to exposure and cotinine levels.
Conclusions:
- Aircraft ventilation systems significantly impact ETS levels.
- In-flight ETS exposure leads to measurable nicotine absorption and adverse symptoms.
- Even in designated nonsmoking zones, passengers and crew can experience significant nicotine exposure.