Langley Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit [2026 Update]

Langley Air Force Base (AFB), part of Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, has been identified as a site of severe PFAS contamination, with dangerously high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) detected in groundwater.

PFAS chemicals have been linked to serious health risks and environmental concerns, making their presence in drinking water a significant issue for military personnel, civilian workers, and nearby communities.

These chemicals do not break down naturally, meaning that PFAS contamination at Langley AFB has likely persisted for decades, affecting groundwater, private drinking water wells, and public water systems in surrounding areas.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has acknowledged PFAS exposure as a significant issue at military installations, and Langley AFB, an active EPA Superfund site, remains one of the most heavily contaminated bases in the country.

Addressing this crisis requires urgent action, including remediation efforts, continued water monitoring, and accountability from PFAS manufacturers and government agencies responsible for pollution at military sites.

Sources of PFAS Chemicals at Langley AFB

The PFAS contamination at Langley AFB primarily stems from the historical use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), a highly effective firefighting foam that was extensively used at military installations for fire suppression training and emergency response operations.

AFFF contains polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been found to be highly persistent in the environment, leaching into soil and groundwater over time.

Sources of PFAS pollution at Langley AFB include:

• Firefighting Training Areas – Langley AFB conducted regular firefighting drills using AFFF, resulting in repeated PFAS releases into the environment.
• Emergency Response to Aircraft and Fuel Fires – Military bases frequently use AFFF to suppress jet fuel fires, leading to direct contamination of surrounding soil and water sources.
• Runoff from Aircraft Maintenance and Industrial Areas – PFAS-containing industrial solvents, degreasers, and coatings may have contributed to contaminated water supplies at the base.
• Waste Disposal and Drainage Systems – Improper disposal of firefighting foam, along with leaks from storage tanks and stormwater runoff, has further spread PFAS chemicals into local water systems and groundwater.

Because PFAS chemicals are resistant to natural degradation, contamination from firefighting foam has accumulated over time, leading to widespread environmental and health concerns at Langley AFB and its surrounding communities.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and other advocacy organizations have raised concerns about unregulated PFAS exposure at military sites, emphasizing the need for immediate action to mitigate health risks and prevent further contamination.

PFAS Levels Detected at Langley AFB

PFAS testing at Langley AFB has revealed alarmingly high PFAS concentrations in groundwater.

In 2018, combined PFOA and PFOS levels were measured at 2,225,000 ppt, significantly surpassing the EPA’s health advisory limit of 4 ppt.

PFAS levels at Langley AFB, measured in 2018, are reported as follows:

• PFOA: 26,000 ppt
• PFOS: 2,200,000 ppt
• PFOA+PFOS: 2,225,000 ppt
• PFBS: 49,000 ppt

The persistence of PFAS in the environment means that these elevated levels are likely to remain, even with active remediation efforts.

Impacted Populations at Langley AFB

The PFAS contamination at Langley AFB potentially affects multiple populations.

Military personnel stationed at the base, their families, civilian employees, and residents in nearby communities who rely on groundwater sources for drinking water are at risk of exposure.

Given the high levels of contamination detected, these groups may have been exposed to PFAS through various pathways, including drinking contaminated water, consuming affected local produce, or inhaling dust particles.

The extent of exposure and associated health risks necessitate comprehensive assessment and monitoring.

Addressing PFAS Contamination at Langley AFB

Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Langley AFB are underway.

The Department of Defense has initiated a remedial investigation to determine the nature and measure PFAS contamination in soil and groundwater at multiple sites within the base.

This investigation aims to inform the development of appropriate remediation strategies to mitigate environmental and health risks.

Providing alternative water sources and implementing filtration systems are critical steps to reduce exposure among affected populations.

Ongoing monitoring and community engagement are essential components of the response strategy.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial, military, and consumer products since the 1940s.

Known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, PFAS have been commonly found in firefighting foams, nonstick cookware, food packaging, water-repellent clothing, and industrial solvents.

At military installations like Langley Air Force Base (AFB), Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) containing PFAS chemicals was extensively used in firefighting training and emergency response operations.

While effective at suppressing fuel fires, AFFF has contaminated groundwater and drinking water sources, leading to long-term exposure risks for service members, civilian workers, and surrounding communities.

One of the most concerning aspects of PFAS contamination is that these “forever chemicals” do not break down naturally in the environment.

Once introduced into water systems, soil, and air, they persist for decades, accumulating in both the human body and ecosystems.

Because of this, PFAS are highly toxic, bioaccumulative, and difficult to remove from contaminated water supplies.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and scientific studies have identified PFAS chemicals as a major public health concern due to their toxic effects on humans and the environment.

Health Risks Linked to PFAS Contamination

Exposure to PFAS chemicals—particularly at the high concentrations detected at Langley AFB—has been associated with serious health consequences for service members, civilian employees, and local residents.

PFAS chemicals pose a serious threat to human health because they accumulate in the bloodstream, liver, kidneys, and immune system, leading to long-term health problems.

According to scientific studies and previous research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), PFAS exposure has been linked to:

• Increased Cancer Risk – Long-term PFAS exposure has been associated with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and breast cancer, as confirmed by epidemiological studies.
• Thyroid Disease and Hormonal Disruptions – PFAS chemicals interfere with thyroid function, increasing the risk of thyroid disease, metabolic disorders, and developmental delays in children.
• Immune System Suppression – Studies show that PFAS exposure weakens the immune system, reducing vaccine effectiveness and increasing susceptibility to infections.
• Liver and Kidney Damage – PFAS accumulate in the liver and kidneys, leading to liver dysfunction, kidney disease, and elevated cholesterol levels.
• Reproductive and Developmental Harm – Pregnant women exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water face an increased risk of pregnancy complications, birth defects, and fertility issues.
• Cardiovascular and Endocrine System Effects – Some PFAS chemicals have been linked to high blood pressure, cholesterol imbalances, and endocrine disruptions, affecting hormonal balance in exposed individuals.

Because PFAS chemicals are bioaccumulative, meaning they build up in the human body over time, individuals exposed to contaminated drinking water at Langley AFB may face lifelong health problems.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified certain PFAS chemicals as likely carcinogens, underscoring the serious risks associated with exposure.

Environmental Impact of PFAS

The environmental consequences of PFAS contamination are far-reaching, as these chemicals persist in water, soil, and wildlife for decades.

Once PFAS chemicals enter the ecosystem, they spread through groundwater, rivers, and food chains, making it nearly impossible to remove them completely.

Some of the most severe environmental impacts of PFAS pollution include:

• Groundwater Contamination – PFAS levels at Langley AFB have been found at dangerously high concentrations, affecting private drinking water wells, public water systems, and stormwater runoff.
• Soil Contamination and Agricultural Risks – Once PFAS chemicals enter the soil, they can leach into crops and livestock, increasing dietary exposure risks for humans.
• Wildlife Exposure and Bioaccumulation – PFAS chemicals accumulate in fish, birds, and other animals, disrupting reproductive cycles, immune systems, and hormonal balance.
• Difficult and Costly Cleanup Efforts – Unlike other contaminants, PFAS cannot be easily removed using traditional water filtration or soil remediation methods. Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filtration are some of the few techniques that can reduce PFAS concentrations, but they require long-term maintenance.

Because of their persistent nature, PFAS chemicals have been detected in low levels across the globe, affecting drinking water supplies, food chains, and natural ecosystems.

Without immediate intervention, PFAS pollution will continue to pose health and environmental risks for future generations.

The Need for Urgent Action

The PFAS crisis at Langley Air Force Base and other military installations across the U.S. underscores the critical need for immediate action to address PFAS contamination and protect public health.

The Department of Defense (DoD), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and advocacy groups have called for increased research, regulatory enforcement, and legal accountability to address the ongoing PFAS pollution crisis.

The PFAS contamination at Langley AFB represents just one part of a nationwide crisis affecting military sites, drinking water supplies, and surrounding communities.

Immediate action is required to reduce PFAS levels, remediate contaminated sites, and protect future generations from exposure to these toxic substances.

The legal and regulatory response to PFAS pollution will play a crucial role in determining how military agencies, chemical manufacturers, and government organizations address this ongoing environmental disaster.

Affected individuals should seek legal counsel to determine their eligibility for compensation due to PFAS-related health effects.

PFAS litigation has gained momentum as more individuals, communities, and environmental groups take legal action against companies and government entities responsible for PFAS contamination.

Lawsuits have been filed against chemical manufacturers, the Department of Defense (DoD), and other industries for their role in polluting drinking water supplies, groundwater, and military installations with PFAS chemicals.

Many of these lawsuits argue that responsible parties knew about the health risks associated with PFAS exposure but failed to warn the public or take steps to reduce contamination.

Plaintiffs in PFAS lawsuits include military personnel, veterans, civilian employees, and nearby residents who were exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals through drinking water contamination at military bases like Langley Air Force Base (AFB).

The legal battle over PFAS contamination has led to multi-billion-dollar settlements, increased regulatory oversight, and growing public awareness of the health risks associated with PFAS exposure.

As more scientific studies confirm the dangers of PFAS chemicals, litigation continues to be a critical tool for holding polluters accountable and ensuring that affected individuals receive medical monitoring, compensation, and justice.

If you or a loved one were stationed, lived, or worked near Langley Air Force Base (AFB) and were exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water, you may qualify for legal action. PFAS contamination at Langley AFB has been linked to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) used in firefighting training exercises, leading to dangerously high levels of PFAS chemicals in groundwater and drinking water supplies.

Individuals who may be eligible to file a PFAS lawsuit include:

• Military personnel, veterans, and their families who were stationed at Langley AFB during periods of known PFAS contamination.
• Civilian employees and contractors who worked on or near the base and were exposed to contaminated drinking water.
• Residents living near Langley AFB, particularly those who rely on private drinking water wells, who may have been unknowingly exposed to PFAS pollution.
• Individuals diagnosed with PFAS-related illnesses, including cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disorders, or reproductive harm, after prolonged exposure to PFAS-contaminated water.

If you or a family member have experienced health problems potentially linked to PFAS exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

A free case evaluation with an experienced PFAS attorney can help determine your eligibility for a Langley AFB PFAS lawsuit.

Gathering Evidence

Building a strong case in a Langley Air Force Base PFAS lawsuit requires gathering substantial evidence to prove exposure, contamination levels, and the resulting health effects.

Plaintiffs need to demonstrate that they were exposed to PFAS chemicals and suffered adverse health effects as a result.

Key evidence that can support a PFAS lawsuit includes:

• Water Testing Results – Documents showing PFAS detected in public water systems, private drinking water wells, or groundwater near Langley AFB. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports, Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) data, and Environmental Working Group (EWG) findings can also support your claim.
• Medical Records – Documentation of health conditions linked to PFAS exposure, such as thyroid disease, kidney cancer, liver disease, or immune system disorders, helps establish the connection between contaminated drinking water and the harm suffered.
• Residency or Employment Records – Proof that you lived, worked, or were stationed near Langley AFBduring periods of known PFAS contamination strengthens your case. Military service records, utility bills, or lease agreements can serve as supporting documentation.
• Environmental Studies and Government Reports – Scientific studies, EPA test results, and Department of Defense (DoD) reports outlining PFAS contamination at Langley AFB can demonstrate long-term exposure risks and the presence of hazardous PFAS chemicals.
• Expert Testimony – Medical experts, environmental scientists, and toxicologists may provide professional evaluations on how PFAS exposure led to adverse health effects, further strengthening a legal claim.

Given the complexity of PFAS litigation, working with an experienced PFAS attorney can help ensure your claim is supported by strong evidence.

If you suspect you were exposed to PFAS contamination at Langley AFB, it is crucial to act quickly to gather the necessary documentation and seek legal assistance.

A free consultation with a PFAS lawyer can help determine your eligibility for compensation and guide you through the legal process of filing a claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law today to discuss your case and learn how you can seek justice for PFAS-related health issues.

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating PFAS contamination at Langley Air Force Base (AFB) and its harmful impact on military personnel, veterans, civilian employees, and surrounding communities.

Langley AFB, a major military installation, has been identified as a site of high PFAS concentrations due to the extensive use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in firefighting training and emergency responses.

This has led to contaminated drinking water, groundwater pollution, and serious health risks for those exposed to forever chemicals.

Our legal team at TorHoerman Law is dedicated to holding the Department of Defense (DoD), chemical manufacturers, and other responsible parties accountable for their role in PFAS pollution.

We are investigating claims on behalf of military families, base employees, and nearby residents who may have suffered health issues due to prolonged PFAS exposure.

Conditions such as cancer, thyroid disease, immune disorders, and reproductive harmhave been linked to PFAS chemicals, and affected individuals may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Our firm has extensive experience handling environmental contamination lawsuits and is committed to fighting for justice for those impacted by PFAS pollution at military installations like Langley AFB.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water at Langley AFB and developed health problems, we encourage you to contact us for a free case evaluation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant consultation at no cost.

Let TorHoerman Law help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve for the harm caused by PFAS contamination at Langley AFB.