Sea King Helicopter Cancer and Asbestos Claims

Asbestos & Cancer Risk in Sea King Helicopters: What You Need to Know

Between 1969 and 2018, thousands of service personnel operated in Sea King helicopters. Now, over 180 aircrew are seeking compensation due to cancers linked to asbestos and toxic fumes inside these aircraft.

Even after modifications in 2006: 90 separate components on the Sea King helicopter contained asbestos, many of which remained in use until the aircraft’s decommissioning in 2018.

MoD's Duty of Care - Where They Failed

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is obligated to protect personnel from known risks, implementing reasonable measures to protect them from potential injury and disease risks.

But for decades, service members were exposed to asbestos and harmful fumes in Sea Kings with inadequate safety measures, monitoring hazards, or protective equipment, particularly in the context of aircraft fuel and engine fumes.

Despite being responsible for assessing these risks thoroughly, identifying potential toxic exposure, implementing robust ventilation systems, providing adequate respiratory protection, and regularly monitor personnel’s health.

They failed to meet these standards, constituting as a breach of duty of care and is now the basis for a legal claim.

Could You Be Affected?

If you suspect you’ve been impacted and fit into any of these categories, you may be entitled to compensation.

RAF aircrew, engineers, mechanics, and support staff

Served between May 15, 1987 – September 30, 2018
Diagnosed with blood-related cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma, mesothelioma, lung cancer)
No combat duty required to be eligible

Your Right to Claim Compensation

Since 1987, UK Armed Forces personnel and veterans have been able to seek compensation from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) through a civil claim if they have been injured due to MoD negligence.

Claims include illnesses caused by:

Asbestos/fume exposure
Poor training or protective gear
Inadequate medical care

Importantly, for those currently serving, pursuing a negligence claim against the MoD will not negatively affect your Armed Forces career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Linked illnesses: What is Mesothelioma?

Illnesses Linked

Multiple Myeloma
Lung, throat, testicular cancers
Mesothelioma

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Persistent chest pain
Breathlessness
Chronic coughing
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss

Mesothelioma is often fatal and develops silently for years after exposure.

Can I Make a Claim Against the MOD?

You are eligible to claim compensation against the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for a variety of issues arising from military service including:

Injuries from accidents (training, vehicle, defective equipment)
Insufficient protective gear leading to conditions like cold injuries or hearing loss.
Harm resulting from inadequate training (e.g., heat injuries),
Assaults, bullying, or harassment.
Developing PTSD or other mental health conditions due to service or MoD negligence
Injuries from clinical negligence.
Injuries caused by exposure to harmful substances (like chemicals or asbestos) without proper protection,
Injuries sustained in road traffic accidents.

What Evidence Will You Need to Start Your Claim?

We offer precise direction from the moment you get in touch with us, helping with every stage, including obtaining important evidence, all with the goal of ensuring your claim has the best chance of success.

In order to accomplish this, you will need:

A personal statement of your service and exposure
Medical diagnosis/proof of condition
Witness statements (if available)
Receipts for treatment-related expenses
Records showing loss of earnings or support

How much compensation will I receive?

The amount of compensation you will be awarded will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and will depend on your circumstances and injuries caused by the exposure.

The claims range for these types of cases can be from a few thousand pounds to hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Don’t Wait - What Legal Deadlines Apply?

You typically have 3 years from diagnosis to bring a claim. But asbestos-related cases are complex even if you think you’ve missed the window, our solicitors may still be able to help.

Here at Oakwood Solicitors Ltd:

We are experts in military injury claims
We operate on a No win, no fee
We handle all negotiations and paperwork
We offer support for both serving and veteran personnel
We ensure a compassionate and confidential service

Where can I find further information?

Access the links below to receive further information on Sea King helicopter Cancer and Asbestos Claims:

Don’t Suffer in Silence. You Deserve Answers and Compensation

If you served in a Sea King helicopter and now suffer from a related illness, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Let us guide you through the legal process.

Liam Hill - Solicitor and Deputy Head of Department - Industrial Disease

Liam Hill is a Solicitor and Deputy Head of the Industrial Disease Team, having trained and qualified at Oakwood Solicitors. Liam joined us in 2013 after successfully completing the Legal Practice Course at the University of Law and having studied Law at Lincoln University. Having a family background in both the military and woodworking/joinery sectors, his ability to understand the nature of Claimants working in those fields are second to none. Liam is easy to approach and is more than happy to take the time to explain the merits of a proposed claim to a Claimant and enjoys nothing more than ensuring that the Claimant is fully informed as to the complexities of their case.