Letter to Industry: Most Aircraft Fire Extinguishers are Illegal to Ship
DOT Special Permit Application
On May 15, 2024 Tym’s submitted an application to the US DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration(PHMSA) for an emergency special permit to address the regulatory issues relating to shipping portable fire extinguisherstypically installed on aircraft. Emergency status was approved on May 21, substantiating our concerns. As of the posting of this article, the application is still being processed by the DOT.
Most Portable Fire Extinguishers are Illegal to Ship
A little-known rule became a major hindrance to aircraft owners and operators and the entire aviation supply chain, when we found most aircraft portable fire extinguishers are illegal to ship. This includes transportation when new, sent for maintenance, and disposed of.
Tym’s Letter Explains the Details
Our open letter to industry explains the situation in detail and presents facts surrounding the issue. We also included a call to action to industry trade associations, aircraft owner/ operators, (including all major US airlines), and repair stations to pressure the DOT and FAA to offer a reprieve to those who apply for Party Status.
Support from Trade Associations
The Aeronautical Repair Station Association (www.ARSA.org) and Counsil on Safe Transportation of Hazardous Substances (www.COSTHA.com) have supported our efforts. In fact, ARSA recently published a Legal Brief supporting our findings.
Read the Letter
We encourage you to read, distribute, and discuss our letter found here.
More information can be found on our website.
Get Involved
Here’s some ways to help the industry:
- Send the letter to your trade association and voice your concern as a member
- Reach out to DOT PHMSA in support of our efforts. Email specialpermits@dot.gov supporting approval of DOT-SP 21774under Tracking Number 2024054609.
We welcome your feedback with any questions, insights, or ideas for compliance that may benefit the industry: https://tymsllc.com/contact-us/