EASA SIB 2020-01R1: Carbon Monoxide Risk in Small Aeroplanes and Helicopters

What to do

Aircraft owners and operators should ensure regular inspection and maintenance of exhaust, heating, and ventilation systems as per manufacturer guidance or add such tasks if not provided. Installing and maintaining active CO detectors compliant with ETSO-2C48a is recommended. In case of suspected CO exposure, pilots should follow immediate actions such as turning off heating, increasing ventilation, using supplemental oxygen if available, and landing promptly. No mandatory compliance deadlines are specified as this is informational guidance.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2020-01R1 is a safety information bulletin addressing the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in small aeroplanes and light helicopters equipped with internal combustion engines or combustion heaters. It applies to aircraft types including CS-LSA, CS-VLA, CS-23 aeroplanes, and CS-27 helicopters. The bulletin highlights the dangers of CO poisoning, referencing a fatal accident involving a Piper PA-46 Malibu, and provides guidance on detection, prevention, and response to CO contamination in the cockpit and cabin.

What changed

This revision of EASA SIB 2020-01 adds recommendations for including CO concentration checks in scheduled maintenance tasks, advice on the use of portable ('carry-on') CO detectors, and references a planned amendment to the CS-SC107a certification specification to facilitate installation of active CO detectors. It updates previous guidance to enhance awareness and mitigation measures against CO exposure risks.

Why it matters

The bulletin is important for aviation professionals because CO exposure can cause serious health effects including incapacitation and death, posing a significant safety risk during flight. Operators, maintenance organizations, and pilots must understand how to prevent CO ingress, detect its presence early, and respond effectively to protect occupants. Incorporating these recommendations improves safety and helps maintain regulatory compliance for small piston-engine aircraft and light helicopters.