Under UK environmental regulations, halon-based handheld fire extinguishers - specifically those containing Halon 1211 and Halon 2402 - must be replaced in aircraft cabins and crew compartments by 31 December 2025.
These requirements come from the Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations 2015 and the Ozone-Depleting Substances (Qualifications) Regulations 2009, which aim to reduce the use of substances harmful to the ozone layer.
Responsibility for these regulations lies with:
- Defra (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) – which sets the legal deadlines.
- The Environment Agency and local authorities – which enforce the rules in England, with equivalent bodies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The CAA is not empowered to issue exemptions or derogations under the above regulations and is not responsible for enforcing these regulations.
Options for General Aviation Aircraft
If you operate an unpressurised, non-complex aircraft with up to six passenger seats, you may be able to replace your halon extinguisher using Standard Change CS-SC108a. This allows for the installation of halon-free handheld fire extinguishers without needing prior CAA approval - provided the conditions of the standard change are met.
Certification Memorandum UK-CM-CS-013 includes simplified guidance for General Aviation on selecting and installing halon-free handheld fire extinguishers to protect aircraft cabins and crew compartments.
Further Guidance
General Aviation pilots and aircraft owners are encouraged to refer to FAA Advisory Circular AC 20-42D, which provides more detailed technical guidance on handheld fire extinguishers for aircraft.