Breathing Easy? The Hidden Health Crisis of Europe’s Busiest Airports and the Need for Action

A recent study has shed light on the hidden health crisis that millions of people living near Europe’s busiest airports face due to the ultrafine particles emitted by jet engines. These tiny particles have been linked to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and dementia. Over 52 million individuals in Europe are exposed to these harmful emissions, with those living within 20km of major airports being particularly at risk.

The aviation sector has been criticized for prioritizing growth over the health of its own people, especially the most vulnerable populations. However, health experts are concerned about the harmful effects of ultrafine particles, which can penetrate deep into the body and lead to various health issues such as asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk from long-term exposure to these particles.

Ignoring the impacts of ultrafine particles on public health is unsustainable and detrimental to the well-being of communities. It is crucial for policymakers to address this issue and take action to protect the health of individuals living near busy airports. The study suggests that using cleaner jet fuel could reduce ultrafine particle emissions by up to 70%, but more needs to be done to ensure that our skies remain safe for all who travel through them.