Avalon

Various entities have provided aviation rescue and fire fighting services at Avalon Airport since 1953. Airservices has provided these services at the airport since 2005.

PFAS and fire fighting foam

PFAS stands for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, which are manufactured chemicals used in products that resist heat, oil, stains and water. They have been widely used since the 1950s in common household products, as well as commercial industrial applications such as fire fighting foams.

When Airservices became aware of the potential environmental impacts of PFAS in the early 2000s, we transitioned away from their use. We have used PFAS-free foam at Avalon Airport since 2010.

Site investigations

As part of Airservices' National PFAS Management Program, we are undertaking a site investigation to determine the nature and extent of PFAS at our sites at Avalon Airport. It is expected to be completed in 2023. We will then undertake a Detailed Site Investigation (DSI) if more information is required.

PFAS was detected in the mains (tap) water supply to the aviation rescue and fire fighting service (ARFFS) Avalon sites during October 2022. It was subsequently detected in mains water upstream of the ARFFS sites, at the air traffic control tower and in various Avalon Airport facilities. The water source has been disconnected to ensure the safety of our people and alternative facilities are being provided. We continue to work with all stakeholders, including Avalon Airport, the local water provider and relevant agencies, to understand the source of the PFAS that has been detected and to decide on the actions that need to be taken.

Site management and remediation

We manage legacy PFAS through our National PFAS Management Program to ensure the safety of our people and the communities and environment in which we operate.

The information obtained from the site investigation will inform next steps in the management or remediation of our sites at Avalon Airport.

We continue to collaborate with relevant State environmental and health regulators and Avalon Airport as part of an evidence-led approach to the responsible management of PFAS.