Cargo smoke detectors inop.
 

I found an inoperative cargo smoke detector today (ATR, aft cargo compt). It was deferred, but the MEL says "no combustible cargo allowed". I had a dispute with our dispachers, as I claimed "combustible" is anything that may burn (therefore normal passenger luggage is combustible and eg. water isn't) and the dispach claimed "combustible" is something that burns easily - i.e. it's o.k to get normal luggage, but I couldn't load any flammable DGR goods into the compatrment. I know it's a bit of a language problem, as English isn't my mother tongue. However, I felt I was right and was reclutant to accept the dispatch definition. What would you do? Go with it or leave the baggage? What do MELs of other a/c say about cargo smk det. systems? Are there any rules on when cargo smk system is required?

The argument is combustable verses flammable. Luggage will certainly support combustion and now with everyones flammable cosmetics stuffed in there.........The aircraft I operate (not the ATR) may not have any cargo loaded into any compartment where the smoke detectors are inop!

Bags=combustible. Bottle of booze, can of hair spray, Chav shellsuits etc etc . They all burn.

Our company MEL makes a positive assertion that bags are combustible. T-fly

We always carry a spare smoke detector for that case. ;)
Interesting question though - I will investigate a little with my operator to see what our books say.

I'd stick with "flite idol" no cargo in a compartment without smoke detector.

As both a pilot and dispatcher, I can see both sides of the argument.

First, I wouldn't debate the MEL with the Flight Crew since it's a Company-specific document with which I would not be familiar (note, I work for a handling agent, NOT an airline).

Secondly, I never argue with Flight (or Cabin) Crew and on technical matters I would respect their decision, whatever it may be.

Thirdly, in this case, I would totally agree with your decision; while we could elaborate forever on the distinction between flammable and combustible, I know that most airlines I dispatch would support your interpretation, i.e. no serviceable smoke detector = hold is u/s. If that means leaving bags/cargo behind, then so be it. Safety is paramount. Full stop.

Cheers :cool:

I liked the question so I did a bit of searching. It appears that "Combustable" means that it can burn and will ignite but its flashpoint is above 100° F (37.8° C) and "Flammable" means the item is easily capable of ignition and has a flashpoint less than the above. However, that it where you should ask for guidance - short of trying to set fire to passengers bags to see how readily they ignite...

PM