Ask the Captain: Are jets' HEPA filters capable of filtering out coronavirus particulates?


What would it take for airline companies to demand that manufacturers install air filtration systems that would remove 95% or better of 0.3 micron particulates, which would include most viruses?

a close up of text on a black background: HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of particles that are 3 micrometres in diameter, and efficiently remove both larger and smaller particles.

– JRH, Reno, Nevada

The HEPA (high energy particulate arrestance) filters on board commercial jets already perform that level of filtration. 

Most airliners recycle 25-30% of the air in the cabin. The air that is being recycled passes thru the HEPA filter and traps particles, including viruses. 

a close up of a logo: HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of particles that are 3 micrometres in diameter, and efficiently remove both larger and smaller particles.

The remaining 70%-75% of the air is exhausted overboard. Turnover time for in the cabin for a single-aisle jet like an A320 or B737 is around three minutes. 

This means that the exposure possibilities are only from the time the particulate/virus is exhaled until it goes overboard or to the filter. This would be similar to any building where the exhaled particles would be routed into a air return duct then filtered. 

How far does coronavirus travel in the air?  Preliminary study finds virus on tiny particles of air pollution


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