Boeing invented an ultraviolet wand to test surface cleaning

In cooperation with the University of Arizona, Boeing has tested out its cleaning methodologies using a live virus and a real aircraft. The manufacture tested cleaning with chemical disinfectant and Boeing ultraviolet wand therefore it was proven to destroy the virus.

The UV wand is designed to be more effective than similar devices. It quickly disinfects surfaces on an airplane and further adds other layers of protection for passengers and crew. Mike Delaney, Boeing CTI (Ionfident Travel Initiative), committed the following:

Photo by: Boeing
Boeing Licenses Ultraviolet Wand

While these cleaning solutions had been tested in other environments, an airplane behaves differently. It was critical for us to evaluate and confirm the chemicals and techniques we recommend for our customers’ use are effective and battle-tested. By working with the University of Arizona, we were able to employ their world-renowned expertise in virology to do exactly that.”

Healthe will produce and distribute the commercial wand, helping airlines and potentially others combat the coronavirus pandemic. The technology could be available for airlines in late fall. The device is in addition to sanitizing and protective measures already in place, which include the use of high-efficiency particulate air filters that trap more than 99.9% of particulates and prevent them from re-circulating back to the cabin.

Photo by: Boeing
Researchers applied a live virus to parts of a 737.

It’s the first time a virus test such as this has been performed on a commercial aircraft. As Boeing is providing it to airlines and partners to assure excellent cleaning processes, this research will give confidence that the products and processes recommended by the manufacturer really do work.

The mission of Boeing’s confident Travel Initiative is to be a leader in the global effort to provide passengers and crew a safe, healthy and efficient travel experience.

When they apply all the cleaning process, the risk of any virus entering the plane is reduced and in worst case scenario if a contagious person enters the plane, Boeing’s cleaning techniques ensure the cabin is disinfectant for it’s passengers.