A Piper Dakota crashed January 17 near Alton, New Hampshire, after the pilot and passenger became incapacitated. The state medical examiner said both had suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning. A leak in the exhaust system could allow carbon monoxide gas to enter the cabin. That can lead to headache, drowsiness, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness and death. If you ever get a headache or become sleepy, dizzy or nauseous, suspect carbon monoxide and get fresh air immediately.
Carbon monoxide can enter the cockpit without a detectable exhaust smell.
Landsberg noted there are several different styles of carbon monoxide detectors available for aircraft use. The Air Safety Foundation recommends installing a CO detector and including it in the pilot's instrument scan anytime cabin heat is in use. New technology detectors with a longer useful life are now coming on the market. As aircraft age, regular inspection and maintenance become increasingly important. The AOPA Air Safety Foundation is general aviation's independent, non-profit organization chartered in 1950 to improve general aviation safety.