Abstract: Disclosed in an apparatus and method for self-cleaning a barrier-type air filter. In an aircraft, a filter may be located within an air delivery duct wherein normal airflow through the duct deposits airborne lint and the like on an upstream side of the filter. To clean the filter, an airflow discharge conduit interconnects the duct and the exterior of the aircraft from a position upstream of the filter. A valve is operatively positioned in the conduit for opening and closing the airflow path it creates. When both normal airflow is stopped and the valve is opened, a reversal of airflow through the filter takes place and the lint is removed therefrom.