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

How many fire extinguishers are manually activated for ENGINE protection?

1. One

2. Two

3. Three

4. Four

The correct answer is: Two

In aviation safety, specifically concerning engine protection, it's important to understand the necessity and functionality of fire extinguishing systems. When it comes to manually activated fire extinguishers for engine protection, two extinguishers are typically required on commercial aircraft. This redundancy ensures that in the event of a fire in one engine, the crew has the capability to discharge fire suppression agents effectively in both engines, if necessary. Having two extinguishers allows for flexibility in emergency situations, where one may be compromised or ineffective. Moreover, depending on the aircraft design, having two systems can provide enhanced safety and quicker response in critical situations, such as engine fires, by providing the crew with additional resources to tackle the emergency. In contrast, options suggesting a lower or a significantly higher number of extinguishers do not align with standard aviation safety practices or the requirements set forth in aeronautical regulations. The regulation focuses on achieving optimal safety without over-complicating the emergency procedures, which is why this two-extinguisher requirement is the most efficient and effective choice.