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Radiation Exposure of Flight Crews

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MEC Government Affairs

As aviation’s first responders and last line of defense, Flight Attendants keep the traveling public safe and bring the world together. In a profession where safety is our top priority, we often face heightened risks inherent to our work.

Our Union has long worked to reduce the risks of a career in aviation by championing strong aviation legislation. By establishing protocols and federal aviation regulations (FARS), our Government Affairs Committee and our Safety, Health and Security Committee work together to educate legislators, pass laws, and fund research that makes meaningful changes to safety for Flight Attendants, Pilots, and the traveling public.

The 2024 FAA Reauthorization Bill required the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) to study the effects of radiation exposure on flight crewmembers. In June 2026, the National Academies released that study. The findings show that cosmic ionizing radiation is an occupational hazard for Flight Attendants and Pilots. And that Flight Crews have a greater risk of cancer-related deaths than any other profession. The report shared that the “estimated annual occupational doses for flight crew generally fall well below recommended limits; however, cumulative exposures over a career merit monitoring and tracking.” This report confirms what many Flight Attendants have long suspected, as so many of us have witnessed or experienced a cancer diagnosis.

“This study further confirms radiation-related cancers that cause mortality must be acknowledged as occupational deaths.” The risk is known, but crewmembers are not informed or trained. And no one is taking responsibility. Unlike standards in Europe, the FAA still does not require airlines to monitor crew exposure to radiation. We will use these study findings to press regulators, lawmakers, and airlines to ensure that commercial aircraft are a safe and healthy workplace for all flight crewmembers. “We’re thankful to the reports’ authors. This reinforces what our Union has been saying for years: radiation exposure needs to be taken seriously. The industry and regulators must take steps to mitigate risk. Operators must provide care and benefits associated with occupational mortality.” - AP Associated Press

Sara Nelson,

International President

AFA-CWA AFL-CIO

AFA Government Affairs produced this congressionally mandated report because we fight for our safety and security on Capitol Hill. Our advocacy doesn’t stop at radiation exposure. Every legislative win raises the industry safety standard and provides more leverage at the negotiating table for other contractual gains.

While this study provides proof of what we knew, now we need to work on next steps, which could include new regulations on radiation exposure at work, establishing radiation safety programs at carriers, protections for Flight Attendants who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, and monitoring of exposure.

Unified Flight Attendants wield significant political influence when we, as Union members, advocate for ourselves in Washington and at our bases. With the polarized political landscape, connecting Members with resources and accurate information they can trust is more important than ever.

Help us do the good work of expanding our influence as Aviation’s First Responders. It takes all of us to protect the contract we have, elevate our profession in Washington, and pass sound legislation that benefits all. If you are interested in getting involved in your Local Council Government Affairs Committee, please contact your Local Council.