General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Practice Exam

How many bottles are discharged when the cargo fire discharge switch is activated while in flight?

1. 1 bottle

2. 2 bottles immediately, then 4 after delay

3. 4 bottles immediately

4. Only 1 bottle after landing

The correct answer is: 2 bottles immediately, then 4 after delay

When the cargo fire discharge switch is activated during flight, the aircraft's fire suppression system is designed to automatically discharge two bottles of fire extinguishing agent immediately to effectively combat any fire threat. Following this initial discharge, a further four bottles are made available after a specific delay period. This multi-stage approach allows for an immediate response to a fire while also ensuring a sustained suppression capability over time, thereby enhancing safety measures during flight. The answer highlights the system's design, which is focused on providing immediate fire suppression followed by additional support, ensuring that any potential fire risks are managed effectively. Understanding this sequence is essential for pilots and crew members who must be familiar with emergency procedures and the functioning of onboard fire safety systems.