QAVION, you are absolutely correct. Sorry I misread your original post and obviously thought you were talking about detectors.
Following on from this discussion another question to throw out there for comments and discussion. I'm not sure how it applies to the Airbus as I don't know how the detection system works (hopefully somebody type rated may be able to enlighten me). The question is as follows : The detection system on the 747 ( and from mono's post seemingly the 767 and 757) relies on bleed air flow to draw in air from the cargo compartment for sampling. What if for some reason this bleed air flow failed or had to be switched off e.g. if you have a centre bleed duct leak on a -400 you have to isolate that portion of the duct and as a result you lose the bleed air flow. What would be your actions now that you no longer have any cargo fire protection ?
-Continue as normal and hope by the laws of probability you should be alright.
-Go through the fire drill on the presumption of the worst case scenario. This would involve on a Boeing taking steps to reduce the O2 supply to the cargo compartment, reducing the vetilation rate and firing the extinguishers. After this proceed to your nearest suitable airport.
-Same as above but continue on to your destination.
-Go through the precautionary measures to reduce O2 supply and ventilation rate of the cargo compartment but stop short of firing the bottles. Alert the cabin crew in the applicable part of the aircraft to be on the lookout for anything that may indicate the presence of a fire. Continue to the nearest suitable airport.
-Same as above but continue on to your destination.
(Sorry if this brings back bad memories of the CAA multiple choice exam but I think the best way to encourage discussion is put as many options out there as possible)
I would also like to expand this question to any ETOPS operators out there. On a transatlantic or transpacific flight with a similar failure of a fire detection system but this time for one of your two engines what would be your actions ?
Last edited by bsevenfour; 19th July 2002 at 01:30.