What type of hand-held fire extinguishers are commonly available for extinguishing interior aircraft fires?

The selection of water, carbon dioxide (CO2), and dry chemical fire extinguishers as common types for extinguishing interior aircraft fires is significant due to the specific fire safety needs within the aviation environment.

Water extinguishers are useful for cooling and extinguishing fires involving ordinary combustibles, though their use in aircraft is limited due to potential damage to electrical systems and flammable materials. However, they are effective for certain types of materials found in the cabin.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are highly favored in aircraft because they are effective for electrical fires and do not leave any residue, which is crucial in an environment where electronic equipment is prevalent. Their ability to displace oxygen around the fire makes them effective, particularly in confined spaces like those found in aircraft cabins.

Dry chemical extinguishers are versatile in that they can be used on various types of fires, including those involving flammable liquids and gases. They effectively suppress fires by interrupting the chemical reaction of combustion.

These extinguishers provide a range of options to address different fire scenarios that may occur in an aircraft’s interior, reflecting the need for diverse fire suppression methods in a confined and high-stakes environment like an aircraft.