‘Dirty Sock’ Odor On A Plane Could Signal Toxic Fumes, Raising Health Concerns For passengers adn Crew
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A concerning issue is gaining traction in aviation: the presence of unusual odors, often described as resembling “dirty gym socks” or burning rubber, inside airplane cabins.These “fume events” may indicate the presence of possibly toxic chemicals entering the aircraft’s air supply, and advocates are pushing for changes to address the problem.
The source of these fumes is believed to be bleed air systems, which draw air from the engine to provide cabin pressurization and air conditioning. While generally safe, these systems can, in some instances, pull in oil fumes and other contaminants.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn’t require airlines to report every fume event, but a recent review of seven anonymously submitted reports by Forbes revealed serious consequences. Several events lead to emergency landings or deplaning passengers before takeoff. One incident in April 2025 saw a pilot request priority handling from air traffic control after experiencing lightheadedness and throat irritation alongside a smell described as “a dirty, musty gym sock odor followed by a burning rubber smell with a hint of electrical burning.” In May 2024, a flight attendant reported “a very strong and distinct bandage smell or dirty gym sock smell,” experiencing watery eyes, congestion, and chest tightness, and afterward sought medical attention. Another incident in April 2024 resulted in passengers being deplaned and a flight delay due to a “locker room dirty sock smell” during boarding.
“we have known for decades that current bleed air systems can dump toxic chemicals and fuels into the aircraft cabin,poisoning the air for everyone on board,” stated Sara Nelson,president of the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA),which represents over 55,000 flight attendants across 20 airlines. “Rather of making simple changes to protect us, manufacturers and airlines have prioritized corporate profits.”
To address the issue, Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., recently reintroduced the bipartisan Safe Air on Airplanes Act.The bill would mandate airlines to install filters on bleed air systems in existing aircraft within seven years and ultimately phase out bleed air systems in the design of new commercial planes. the legislation is currently awaiting markup in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, according to Frost’s office.