🚁 Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin Asbestos Exposure

The HH-65 Dolphin is a twin-engine, short-range rescue helicopter used by the U.S. Coast Guard since the 1980s. Designed for maritime patrol and medevac missions, the Dolphin is stationed at air stations across the country. To withstand high engine temperatures and electrical risks, many of the aircraft’s internal systems were built with asbestos-containing materials.

Coast Guard mechanics, avionics specialists, and aircrew who worked on or flew the HH-65 were often exposed to asbestos fibers during regular maintenance and emergency repairs. Tasks like wire replacement, gasket servicing, and engine inspection released fibers in poorly ventilated hangars. Over time, repeated exposure led to serious illnesses, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. Our legal team helps HH-65 veterans and families file lawsuits, asbestos trust claims, and VA benefits—with no upfront legal costs and no effect on VA eligibility.

Why Asbestos Was Used in the HH-65 Dolphin

Asbestos was used in the HH-65 Dolphin for heat resistance and fireproofing. It appeared in:

• Wiring insulation throughout engine and control systems

• Gaskets and seals in turbine housings and high-heat joints

• Exhaust heat shields and engine bay panels

• Brake pads and hydraulic line insulation

• Avionics control panels and electronics bay linings

These parts released asbestos dust when removed, cut, or disturbed during maintenance.

HH-65 Dolphin Deployment by U.S. Coast Guard

The HH-65 has served in domestic and international rescue missions across varied climates.

Maintenance cycles and coastal air exposure accelerated asbestos breakdown across many flight zones.

Number of U.S. Service Members Exposed to Asbestos on HH-65 Dolphin Aircraft

Thousands of personnel serviced or flew on the HH-65 during its years of operation.

Total Estimated Exposure: Over 43,000 Coast Guard personnel were likely exposed to asbestos on HH-65 helicopters.

Asbestos Exposure Areas on the HH-65 Dolphin

Engine Bays & Gasket Seals

• High-heat joints and housings used asbestos

• Fibers released during disassembly

Wiring Systems & Insulation

• Wrapped with asbestos to prevent electrical fires

• Frayed during diagnostics and rewiring

Avionics Panels & Electronic Bays

• Lined with fire-resistant asbestos boards

• Techs exposed during system upgrades

Exhaust & Heat Shielding

• Insulated to contain turbine and exhaust heat

• Dust released when cracked or corroded

Brake & Hydraulic Systems

• Brake linings contained asbestos

• Worn pads released dust during replacements

HH-65 Personnel at High Risk of Asbestos Exposure

Common Asbestos Products Used on the HH-65 Dolphin

Engine Gaskets & Turbine Seals

• Used in high-heat components

• Released dust during removal

Wiring Harness Insulation

• Wrapped bundles to resist flame

• Frayed over time, shedding fibers

Avionics Bay Fireproof Panels

• Shielded sensitive systems from engine heat

• Cracked with age, exposing fibers

Brake Pads & Hydraulic Insulation

• Made for short, intense landing cycles

• Shed fibers during replacements

Control Panel Adhesives & Seals

• Bonded systems in cockpit

• Released dust when aged or disturbed

Long-Term Health Risks from HH-65 Asbestos Exposure

• Mesothelioma – Rare, aggressive cancer caused only by asbestos exposure

• Asbestosis – Lung scarring from long-term inhalation of asbestos fibers

• Lung Cancer – Linked to even minimal fiber exposure over time

• Pleural Plaques – Thickening of lung lining that restricts breathing

The Military’s Knowledge of Asbestos Dangers

• Asbestos risks were documented by the 1930s

• Use continued into 1990s in aviation systems

• Crews were rarely warned or issued protection

Lawsuits Filed by HH-65 Dolphin Veterans

Veterans and their families have filed claims after asbestos-related diagnoses:

• Mechanics exposed while replacing engine gaskets and seals

• Avionics techs inhaled dust from cracked insulation panels

• Crew members worked in enclosed compartments with airborne fibers

• Families filed wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of veterans

HH-65 Dolphin Asbestos Settlements & Verdicts

Asbestos Manufacturers & Contractors Involved

These companies supplied asbestos-containing components and were later sued in asbestos litigation.

Veterans & Asbestos Trust Funds

• Over $30 billion remains available through asbestos trust funds

• HH-65 crew and maintenance staff may qualify for multiple claims

• Claims are handled out of court and are often paid quickly

• Trust fund payouts do not affect VA disability or survivor benefits

VA Benefits for HH-65 Dolphin Veterans with Mesothelioma

• 100% VA disability rating available for asbestos-related mesothelioma

• Tax-free monthly payments exceeding $3,800

• Access to specialized VA mesothelioma treatment centers

• DIC benefits for surviving spouses and children

• Legal claims and VA benefits can be filed together

HH-65 Dolphin Asbestos Lawsuit Process

1. Free Case Evaluation
   Confirm Coast Guard service and your asbestos-related diagnosis.

2. Investigation
   Review aircraft manuals and component records for asbestos exposure links.

3. File Claims
   Submit lawsuits and/or asbestos trust fund claims.

4. Resolution
   Most claims resolve in 6–18 months. No legal fees unless we win.

Statute of Limitations

• Lawsuits: 2–3 years from diagnosis (state-specific)

• Wrongful death: 2–3 years from veteran’s passing

• Trust fund claims: May allow more time—act quickly

Frequently Asked Questions (HH-65 Asbestos Exposure)

Q. Did all HH-65 helicopters contain asbestos?
Yes. Engine gaskets, wiring, and brake parts used asbestos in all units.

Q. Can veterans from other Coast Guard aircraft file claims too?
Yes. Claims can be filed for exposures from multiple aircraft or bases.

Q. Can families file after a veteran’s death?
Yes. Surviving spouses and children may be eligible for compensation and DIC.

Q. Will I need to go to court?
No. Most cases resolve through trust fund payouts or confidential settlements.

Why Work with Mesothelioma Help Center

• 25+ years litigating military aviation asbestos claims

• Access to HH-65 manuals, depot records, and exposure history

• Millions recovered for Coast Guard personnel

• No legal fees unless we win your case

Free Case Evaluation for HH-65 Dolphin Veterans

If you or your loved one served aboard or maintained a HH-65 Dolphin helicopter and developed an asbestos-related illness:

Call 800.291.0963 today for a free, no-obligation case review.

We’ll help you get the compensation and justice you deserve.