B737-800
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
While at cruise; the cockpit fire extinguisher discharged without any provocation. It was secured in its rack behind the First Officer's seat. I placed my hand over the top of the extinguisher and quickly opened the cockpit door; handing it to a Flight Attendant to be wrapped in a blanket. A very loud pressure release was heard and felt from where the plastic top meets the metal tank. Thankfully; it was only an air release. Had the white halon released; there would have been potential for an instant problem in the cockpit. There is currently a recall of Kidde Fire Extinguishers. I wonder if this is included on their list?
B737-800 Captain reported the portable cockpit fire extinguisher self-discharged at cruise altitude.