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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-cabin-smoke-vents

In a cabin fire, when should you open the cabin air vents to clear the smoke?

After using the fire extinguisher, if one is available.

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  1. After using the fire extinguisher ✔
  2. Before doing anything else
  3. Never, vents always feed the fire

Why: Opening vents can clear smoke, but the AFH says to do it only after the extinguisher has been used. If the smoke gets worse with the vents open, close them right away.

Huh, didn't know that: The AFH lists three usual sources of cabin fires: careless smoking, electrical malfunctions and heating system malfunctions.

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The cabin got smoky, so I opened a vent. Now my airplane has fresh air and a fresh start.
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References

Answer: After using the fire extinguisher. Opening vents can clear smoke, but the AFH says to do it only after the extinguisher has been used. If the smoke gets worse with the vents open, close them right away.

  1. Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3C, Chapter 18 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/19_afh_ch18.pdf
    This should be done only after the fire extinguisher (if available) is used.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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