By ANN Correspondent Pete Combs

CO Guardian Receives FAA Approval

You're flying along, minding your own business, when you start to feel a little light-headed. Your head begins to pound . You find yourself wondering if you're flying too high, because you notice you're having trouble breathing. Got the flu? Maybe. But maybe the problem is carbon monoxide poisoning.

A recent study by the University of Illinois Aviation Research Lab indicates that less than ten percent of  general aviation deaths are attributable to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide doesn't necessarily kill right away. While 25-40% of those exposed to carbon monoxide gas die almost immediately, another 15-40% suffer neuropsychological effects that can sometimes last years. But, as the general aviation fleet grows older, the chances that carbon monoxide might permeate the cockpit become that much greater. Parts can wear out. Manifolds can fail.

So says a company called CO Guardian. The Tucson, AZ, operation makes a range of carbon monoxide detectors, including a panel-mounted carbon device certified by the FAA earlier this month for installation on part 23 aircraft. The Aero-452 has a built-in altitude and temperature compensating circuit, an innovation the company claims makes it much more accurate.

It's a simple design. A green status light means the air is just fine. An amber alert light, combined with a warning tone issued from the flat-mounted control surface, indicates a potentially dangerous level of carbon monoxide in the cockpit. And just to be sure, ther3e's a test/reset button so you'll know it's working.

CO Guardian touts the Aero-452 as the "safest way to catch a killer." The price certainly isn't a killer. The Aero-452 lists for $595. If that's enough money to make you choke, you can go with the Aero-252, which starts at under $260. There are less expensive detectors that tie directly to the airplane's cigarette lighter, but some of them aren't certified by the FAA.

FMI: www.coguardian.com