You can see an example of the older, non-interactive carbon monoxide indicators in the lower left of this photo. [File Photo: Adobe Stock]
Key Takeaways:
The NTSB is urging the FAA to mandate interactive carbon monoxide (CO) detectors with both auditory and visual warnings in general aviation aircraft.
CO poisoning is a significant and often fatal hazard in GA, responsible for 31 accidents and 42 deaths between 1982 and 2020, frequently occurring in winter due to faulty cabin heating systems.
Interactive CO detectors are recommended over simpler, color-changing devices because they provide unmistakable alerts, crucial for preventing pilot incapacitation from CO's odorless, colorless effects.
The NTSB is also asking pilot organizations to educate members on CO dangers, promote the use of interactive detectors, and stress the importance of regular exhaust system inspections.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to make interactive carbon monoxide detectors a requirement in general aviation aircraft.
These interactive CO detectors would provide both an auditory and visual warning when CO is present.
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Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.
