Michigan Senator Gary Peters sent a letter to a federal agency urging them to expedite their plans to find an alternative for firefighting foam that contains PFAS chemicals.
AFFF is the only firefighting foam that can take the heat of jet fuel fires. But it also contains PFAS chemicals, and those “forever chemicals” are a primary source of contamination in communities with airports and air force bases.
The Federal Aviation Administration is expected to release a “transition plan” to a PFAS-free alternative by May 6.
Michigan Senator Gary Peters’ letter stresses the urgency of meeting that deadline. The letter is cosigned by three other US senators.
"Delay would be unacceptable, not only to our nation’s airports, but also to the neighboring communities working to address PFAS contamination," the letter reads. "FAA must also ensure Congress has time to act on any potential recommendations as we work to craft the upcoming FAA reauthorization bill."
Other federal agencies have fallen behind on their promises to address PFAS, including the EPA, Department of Defense, and Food and Drug Administration.
In the meantime, AFF is still being used, but only in the event of an emergency.