The recent AAIB finding in the tragic accident to the aircraft carrying Emilano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson, that high levels of Carbon Monoxide were found in the footballers body, is a timely reminder that Piston engine aircraft produce high concentrations of CO that are normally conveyed away from the aircraft though the exhaust system. However poor sealing of the cabin, or leaks into the heating system from the exhaust can provide pathways for CO to enter the cabin.

 

A useful article on the subject was published in Light Aviation magazine in 2017. Please take a look, check your exhaust and cabin heat systems and ensure that a carbon monoxide detector is fitted and functioning.

 

15th August 2019