From California Post · · 1m 20s
San Diego Airport Still Uses Lead Fuel
San Diego’s airport continues using leaded aviation fuel despite clean air efforts.
In brief
San Diego’s airport continues using leaded aviation fuel despite clean air efforts. San Diego’s Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport still uses leaded fuel, risking children’s health with toxic emissions. Originally reported by California Post.
San Diego Airport Uses Lead Fuel
San Diego’s Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport sold more leaded fuel last year than in any year in over a decade.
Lead Fuel Sales Rise
Pilots bought two dozen gallons of unleaded fuel while over a million gallons of leaded fuel passed through the same pumps.
Flight Schools Use Lead Fuel
Flight schools, including Coast Air, account for a large portion of leaded fuel sold at the airport.
Training Aircraft Emit Lead
Aircraft release half their exhaust during takeoff and landing, with trainees doing touch-and-go drills repeatedly.
Lead Harm Children
Lead exposure stunts growth, impairs hearing and speech, shortens attention spans, and lowers IQ in children.
EPA Warns of Health Risks
The EPA concluded in 2023 that emissions from leaded gasoline endanger public health.
State Law Bans Lead Fuel
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a state law banning leaded aviation fuel, effective in 2031.
Petition Demands Action
Over 500 people signed a petition asking for limits on flights and monthly public reporting.
What to remember
San Diego’s Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport still uses leaded fuel, risking children’s health with toxic emissions.
