Boeing authorizes Healthe to produce UV disinfection equipment for epidemic prevention

Boeing has reached an agreement with Healthe, headquartered in Florida, to authorize the latter to produce a handheld UV disinfection device for sanitizing aircraft interiors. As part of Boeing's Clean Travel Initiative (CTI), the company designed and developed this device to support customers and enhance the health and safety of passengers and crew during the pandemic.

This handheld UV disinfection device uses ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 222 nanometers. Studies have shown that 222 nm UV light can effectively kill pathogens.

Mike Delaney, project lead for Boeing's "Confident Travel" initiative, stated: "This handheld UV disinfection device can rapidly sanitize surfaces in the cabin, further strengthening other multi-layered protective measures for passengers and crew. Boeing spent six months transforming this device from an idea into a functional prototype, and Healthe will take over the prototype to make it widely available worldwide."

Healthe will manufacture and distribute this commercial disinfection device to help airlines and other potential users combat the epidemic. The technology may be offered to airlines in late autumn. This device complements existing disinfection and protection measures, which include the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. HEPA filters can capture more than 99.9% of particles, preventing them from recirculating into the cabin. Data shows that Healthe is a technology leader in the research, development, and deployment of disinfection, circadian rhythm, and biological lighting solutions.

By using this equipment that can be stored in a wheeled case, staff can project UV light onto frequently touched surfaces to disinfect any area within reach. Handheld UV disinfection devices are particularly effective in compact, confined spaces, completing full disinfection of a cockpit within 15 minutes.

As part of the "Travel Confidently" initiative, Boeing solicited feedback from multiple industries, which helped rapidly validate this technology. Etihad Airways was the first to evaluate the handheld UV disinfection device, and the device was demonstrated on August 21 on the company's 787-10 Environmental protection validation aircraft.