Airlines must check for disconnected fire extinguishing tubes on older planes

The US aviation regulator proposes a new rule requiring airlines to check specific older ATR airplanes for a fire safety defect. This means airlines operating these planes will need to perform functional checks on their aft cargo fire extinguishing systems.

A disconnected fire extinguishing tube in an aircraft cargo hold is a serious safety risk. This proposed rule means airlines can no longer assume these systems are properly connected. It shifts the burden to operators to actively verify the integrity of a critical safety system.