What type of fire extinguisher is used on board aircraft?

The appropriate fire extinguisher used on board aircraft is Halon 1211. This type of extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires without leaving behind residue that could potentially damage sensitive electronic equipment or aircraft interiors. Halon is effective against classes A (ordinary combustibles), B (flammable liquids), and C (electrical fires), making it versatile and suitable for various types of fires that might occur in an aircraft environment.

Airlines opt for Halon extinguishers because they discharge a gas that interferes with the chemical reaction of fire, effectively suppressing flames. Additionally, Halon does not conduct electricity and is non-corrosive, which further enhances its safety and effectiveness in an aircraft setting where the risk of electrical fires is present.

The other options, while they have their own uses, would not be suitable for aviation safety protocols. CO2 extinguishers can be effective but are typically more suited for smaller fires or those involving flammable liquids, and they do not cool the material after extinguishing, which could lead to re-ignition. Water extinguishers are not used on aircraft as they can create electrical hazards and are ineffective on flammable liquids. Dry chemical extinguishers, while useful for a variety of fires