✈️ HC-131 Samaritan Aircraft Asbestos Exposure

The HC-131 Samaritan, a twin-engine military transport and medevac aircraft used in limited U.S. Coast Guard operations, was originally designed for cargo and passenger transport by the U.S. Air Force. Though its use in Coast Guard aviation was more specialized, many aircraft systems contained asbestos to meet fire safety and thermal requirements.

Asbestos insulation was found in cockpit heat panels, air duct linings, and brake assemblies. During maintenance, mechanics and technicians often handled these components without knowing they contained asbestos. Tasks like brake repair and duct cleaning released airborne fibers, especially in older hangars with poor ventilation. Because most HC-131 aircraft were used before asbestos safety standards were enforced, exposure risks were significant. Our legal team helps veterans and families file lawsuits, trust fund claims, and VA benefits—with no upfront legal costs and no effect on VA eligibility.

Why Asbestos Was Used in the HC-131 Samaritan

To prevent fires and protect systems from heat damage, asbestos was used in:

• Cockpit heating panels and defrost systems

• Air duct insulation and thermal covers

• Brake pads and wheel linings

• Gaskets and high-heat seals in engine systems

• Electrical wiring and cockpit panel housing

These materials wore down over time and released asbestos fibers during maintenance or repair.

HC-131 Samaritan Deployment by U.S. Military Branches

The HC-131 was used in transport, medevac, and surveillance missions before its retirement.

While limited in numbers, the aircraft’s systems aged rapidly, increasing asbestos exposure risk.

Number of U.S. Service Members Exposed to Asbestos on HC-131 Samaritan Aircraft

Personnel involved in routine flight operations or depot maintenance were frequently exposed.

Total Estimated Exposure: Over 33,000 veterans and personnel may have encountered asbestos on HC-131 aircraft.

Asbestos Exposure Areas on the HC-131 Samaritan

Cockpit Heating Panels & Insulation

• Lined with asbestos for fire protection

• Released fibers when disturbed or cracked

Air Ducts & Ventilation Systems

• Wrapped with asbestos insulation

• Maintenance disturbed brittle lining

Brake Pads & Wheel Linings

• Contained asbestos for friction control

• Dust released during replacements

Avionics Wiring & Panel Backs

• Included asbestos-coated electrical insulation

• Wore down with age and vibration

Hangars & Maintenance Bays

• Confined areas with poor ventilation

• Fiber particles lingered during part removal

HC-131 Personnel at High Risk of Asbestos Exposure

Common Asbestos Products Used on the HC-131 Samaritan

Heat Panel Linings

• Controlled cockpit temperature and defrosting

• Cracked over time, shedding fibers

Ventilation Duct Wraps

• Prevented overheating and cabin fire spread

• Released dust when frayed

Brake Linings & Pads

• Built for transport landings

• Released asbestos during part swaps

Wiring Insulation & Terminal Clamps

• Wrapped sensitive components

• Frayed and exposed fibers with time

Cockpit Adhesives & Gasket Seals

• Bonded high-heat surfaces

• Broke down with vibration and wear

Long-Term Health Risks from HC-131 Asbestos Exposure

• Mesothelioma – Rare cancer caused only by asbestos inhalation

• Asbestosis – Chronic lung disease caused by scarring from fibers

• Lung Cancer – Can occur decades after exposure

• Pleural Thickening – Scarring in the lung lining that limits breathing

The Military’s Knowledge of Asbestos Dangers

• Asbestos risks identified in the 1930s

• HC-131 used asbestos through 1970s

• Crews lacked protective gear and hazard warnings

Lawsuits Filed by HC-131 Samaritan Veterans

Numerous legal claims have been filed after diagnoses of asbestos-related illness:

• Mechanics exposed while working on brake systems and insulation

• Avionics techs disturbed panels during diagnostics and upgrades

• Flight personnel inhaled asbestos fibers during operations

• Families filed wrongful death lawsuits after veteran fatalities

HC-131 Samaritan Asbestos Settlements & Verdicts

Asbestos Manufacturers & Contractors Involved

These companies contributed asbestos components to the HC-131 and were later named in lawsuits and trust fund claims.

Veterans & Asbestos Trust Funds

• Over $30 billion remains available through asbestos trust funds

• HC-131 maintenance and flight crew may qualify for multiple trust payouts

• Claims do not require going to court

• Trust compensation has no impact on VA benefits

VA Benefits for HC-131 Samaritan Veterans with Mesothelioma

• 100% VA disability rating for mesothelioma diagnosis

• Over $3,800 in monthly tax-free compensation

• Access to VA-approved mesothelioma treatment centers

• DIC benefits available for spouses and children

• Can file VA and legal claims together

HC-131 Samaritan Asbestos Lawsuit Process

1. Free Case Evaluation
   Verify your HC-131 service and asbestos-related diagnosis.

2. Investigation
   Collect technical records and aircraft component documentation.

3. File Claims
   Submit legal and trust fund claims for eligible compensation.

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

Statute of Limitations

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

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

• Trust fund deadlines: May allow more time—act promptly

Frequently Asked Questions (HC-131 Asbestos Exposure)

Q. Did all HC-131 aircraft contain asbestos?
Yes. All models included asbestos in brakes, insulation, and ductwork.

Q. Can veterans from limited-duty aircraft still file claims?
Yes. All service-connected exposures may qualify regardless of aircraft usage frequency.

Q. Can families file after the veteran’s death?
Yes. Surviving spouses and children are eligible for compensation and VA survivor benefits.

Q. Do I need to appear in court?
No. Most claims resolve via settlements or asbestos trust funds.

Why Work with Mesothelioma Help Center

• 25+ years handling military aircraft asbestos claims

• Access to HC-131 manuals, component specs, and depot records

• Millions recovered for veterans exposed on limited-duty aircraft

• No legal fees unless we win your case

Free Case Evaluation for HC-131 Samaritan Veterans

If you or a loved one served aboard or maintained an HC-131 Samaritan and developed an asbestos-related illness:

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

Let us help you secure justice and compensation for your service.