Cancer-Hit Crew Sue Over 'Toxic' Helicopter Fumes

DOZENS of ex-Army, Navy and RAF crew are suing the Ministry of Defence after being exposed to toxic exhaust emissions in military helicopters.

- Robert Kellaway

They have allegedly developed cancers because of fumes pouring from turbine engines throughout their flying careers. Three have died.

The MoD knew about the potential risks for more than a decade and did nothing about it, lawyers representing the personnel and their families said.

Airmen who flew in Sea King, Wessex, Puma and Chinook helicopters have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, lung cancer, throat cancer and testicular cancer, it is alleged.

Almost 40 are in the process of suing the MoD and the number is expected to double in the coming weeks as more come forward.

Those affected include personnel of all ranks. Lawyers believe the number of claimants is the tip of the iceberg.

At least three former servicemen are known to have died and their families are fighting for justice on their behalf. Others are struggling to have children as a result of their cancers, while others have been told their illnesses are terminal.

Ignorance

Five have received out-of-court settlements including helicopter winchman Zach Stubbings, 45, who trained Prince William.