The use of firefighting foam, mandated by the U.S. government, has long been an established practice at airports and aviation facilities nationwide. Research on the impacts of chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, referred to as PFAS) used in firefighting foam has raised concerns about widespread contamination and the health impacts associated with its use, however, and has resulted in new governmental regulations and litigation. These developments have significant fiscal and operational implications for airports, airlines, and aviation facilities.
UPDATE (August 15, 2023 9:50 PM PST) -- The County of Maui Hawaii issued a press release confirming the first two identifications of the wildfire victims, Lahaina residents Robert Dyckman and Buddy Jantoc. Also in the release, the county confirmed that there have been 114 human remains recovered that are still awaiting identification.