Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most dangerous, and most overlooked, hazards in general aviation. Because it’s invisible and odorless, CO can quietly enter the cabin and impair a pilot before they even realize something is wrong. In Day 22 of MzeroA’s Safer Pilot Challenge, Martin dives into why every flight deck needs a carbon monoxide detector, the types available, and what actions to take if it ever alarms. Investing in this small, but critical device is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself, your passengers, and the safety of every flight.
Why Aircraft Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Essential
Imagine cruising on a cold morning with the cabin heat on. Everything feels normal, until a headache or slight nausea creeps in. These are early signs of carbon monoxide exposure, a threat that sneaks up gradually and often goes unnoticed. The NTSB has urged the FAA to require CO detectors in all general aviation aircraft, and the UK has already mandated them. Here in the U.S., it’s up to the pilots to take this proactive safety step. A carbon monoxide detector can alert you long before symptoms develop, giving you the time you need to respond safely.
Built-In vs. Portable CO Detectors for Planes
A built-in carbon monoxide detector is considered the gold standard. Many modern avionics suites, like the G1000, offer integrated CO monitoring with clear digital readouts, audible alerts, self-tests, and system logging. These detectors are always active, always visible, and require no extra action from the pilot.
For aircraft without integrated systems, portable electronic CO detectors are a reliable alternative. They offer digital displays, alarms, and compact designs suitable for any flight deck. Even basic chemical cards provide better protection and have no detection at all, though they lack alarms and require frequent replacement.
What To Do If Your CO Detector Alarm Activates in Flight
If your detector activates, immediate corrective action is essential. Open all fresh air vents, shut off cabin heat, and use supplemental oxygen if available. Land as soon and safely as possible, and don’t hesitate to declare an emergency if you feel symptoms. Timing matters, and CO poisoning can impair judgment quickly. Built-in CO detectors typically cost between $300-$800, which is less than many pilot headsets, yet they may be the most life-saving device in your flight deck.
Safer Pilot Challenge 2026
The Safer Pilot Challenge is our yearly vow to help you become a smarter, safer pilot, and it runs all month long every January, wrapping up with our big livestream finale on January 31! We’re giving away prizes throughout the month, so be sure to watch each YouTube video and leave the specific comment to enter for a chance to win. Are you committing to 31 for 31 days of the Safer Pilot Challenge? If you love our free content, just imagine what our full courses can do for you. We’d love to welcome you into our online ground schools! Start today with a free 2-week trial and see if MzeroA is the right fit for your aviation journey!