Private Pilot Private Exam

What should a pilot do if they detect an exhaust leak while in flight?

1. Turn off the engine

2. Open air vents or windows

3. Divert to the nearest airport

4. Increase altitude

The correct answer is: Open air vents or windows

If a pilot detects an exhaust leak while in flight, the most appropriate action is to open air vents or windows. This procedure helps to mitigate the risk of carbon monoxide buildup in the cockpit, which can occur as a result of an exhaust leak. By increasing the ventilation, the pilot can help ensure that fresh air circulates in the cabin, thereby reducing the concentration of any harmful gases that may have entered the cockpit from the leak. While other actions such as diverting to the nearest airport might seem prudent, they can lead to unnecessary stress or mishaps if the pilot prepares for an immediate landing rather than addressing the immediate safety concern of potential carbon monoxide exposure. Increasing altitude or turning off the engine does not directly address the issue of airflow and could complicate the situation depending on the aircraft's performance and available options. Therefore, increasing ventilation is a crucial first step when faced with an exhaust leak in flight.