If discovered, pilots must apply immediate action to treat those symptoms before they get worse
Sources of Carbon Monoxide:
CO is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing materials, such as aviation fuel
While Carbon Monoxide poisoning can occur with or without environmental control operating, heating units are the most likely source of the problem
Most heaters in light aircraft work by air flowing over the manifold
Use of these heaters while exhaust fumes are escaping through manifold cracks and seals is responsible every year for several nonfatal and fatal aircraft accidents from carbon monoxide poisoning
It is possible to have a large amount of CO in your blood just by your environment to include polluted air and being around smokers, thereby reducing your tolerance before takeoff
Carbon Monoxide Symptoms
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms:
Compounded with additional cues, knowing the symptoms, and recognizing them in your passengers, can be a key indicator
Carbon Monoxide has an affinity of 240 times that of oxygen which means it will more readily attach itself to your blood cells
Low concentrations over time can produce high blood concentration impeding the bloods ability to transport oxygen
As little as 10% Carboxyhemoglobin (Carbon Monoxide in the blood) can decreased peripheral and night vision
Symptoms will mirror that of hypoxia as an increase of CO in the blood implies you are actually suffering from hypemic hypoxia
Due to its result from incomplete combustion, there will usually be odors or colors which can provide cues
Example: smelling exhaust is an indication of a leak and possible contamination
Since Carbon Monoxide is odorless it may be difficult to detect Carbon Monoxide until you or your passengers are experiencing symptoms, at which point any delay can be life threatening
Therefore, Carbon Monoxide detectors are cheap insurance which you would rather have and not need, than need and not have
Choosing a Carbon Monoxide Detector:
As demonstrated in the case studies, carbon monoxide is a life threatening poison
Carbon Monoxide detectors come in many designs but generally speaking you'll have the choice of either passive or electronic detectors
Pay special attention to the sources of carbon monoxide in the fall and winter months as damage may have occurred months before, but it does not manifest itself until cold weather arrives
More than that however, is to check potential sources prior to every flight
The NTSB determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: An inadequate annual inspection by maintenance personnel, a deteriorated muffler, and pilot incapacitation due to carbon monoxide
The NTSB determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot's severe impairment from carbon monoxide poisoning in flight, which resulted in a loss of control and a subsequent collision with trees and terrain
Conclusion:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in a silent killer who's risk can be mitigated through a few simple steps
It is incumbent on the pilot to conduct a thorough preflight which includes the exhaust/heating components to spot irregularities
After CO poisoning, it can take up to 24 hours to recover
Especially in winter months, refresh your knowledge on Carbon Monoxide and conduct an extra thorough preflight
Remember, the heater system may have gone unused for months
Additionally, ensure the Carbon Monoxide detector is in serviceable condition
