The UK government is investigating the number of military personnel diagnosed with cancer, following allegations that some helicopters exposed air crew to toxic fumes.
At least six cases have already been settled out of court by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), while dozens of current and former military personnel—along with their families—are reportedly pursuing legal action. The claims suggest that officials were aware of safety risks associated with certain aircraft as early as 1999, but failed to implement sufficient protective measures.
The MoD insists it takes personnel health seriously and has begun testing exhaust emissions from affected military helicopters.
Military Cancer Cases Linked to Helicopter Exhaust Exposure
Reported cases include lung cancer, throat cancer, testicular cancer, and rare blood cancers among former air crew. A 2023 Times report revealed that at least three former military personnel had died, while others had received terminal cancer diagnoses.
Government sources acknowledge that the design of some rotary-wing aircraft increases the likelihood of exhaust fumes entering the cabin. Benzene, a known carcinogen found in aircraft fuel, is believed to be a contributing factor.
MoD Conducts Investigation But Faces Legal and Logistical Challenges
The MoD has launched a review to determine how many RAF, Army, and Navy personnel—both active and retired—have been diagnosed with cancer after serving as air crew. However, officials warn that gathering data on veterans’ health records could take years due to accessibility challenges.
More than 150 individuals have contacted law firms regarding potential legal claims. However, many may be ineligible for compensation, as the law permitting claims against the MoD was only enacted in 1987.
Which Military Helicopters Are Under Scrutiny?
Legal documents name at least four types of military helicopters suspected of exposing personnel to hazardous exhaust fumes:
• Sea King (used from 1969–2018)
• Westland Wessex (retired in 2003)
• Puma (still in use)
• CH-47 Chinook (still in use)
The law firm Hugh James, which represents over 40 former military personnel, claims that in 1999, a report recommended modifications to the Sea King to divert exhaust fumes. However, they allege the MoD failed to act on these recommendations or inform personnel of the risks.
Notably, the Sea King was flown by both King Charles and the Prince of Wales during their military service.
Calls for Transparency and Faster Action
Despite the MoD’s claim that past helicopter tests showed no exposure to dangerous contaminant levels, legal experts argue that the investigation must be swift and transparent.
Louisa Donaghy, a senior associate at Hugh James, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating:
“Every delay means more veterans and service personnel could be left without the support they need. Given the challenges in accessing veterans’ records, it’s vital that the government commits the necessary resources to ensure no one is overlooked.”
In response to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request from BBC News, the MoD admitted it does not centrally track cancer diagnoses among air crew, but confirmed that an investigation is underway.
A spokesperson for the MoD reiterated: “We take the health of our personnel extremely seriously and regularly review our processes to ensure that we’re doing what we can to keep our people safe.”
As affected personnel and families seek justice, pressure is mounting on the MoD to acknowledge responsibility and implement further safety measures to protect current and future service members.
