Detecting spark in igniter of gas turbine engine by detecting signals in grounded shielding

A system for detecting spark in an igniter for a gas turbine engine. An igniter generates a plasma or spark, somewhat similar to an automotive spark plug. In the invention, an inductive pick-up is positioned adjacent the igniter, to detect current pulses in the igniter to thereby infer the presence of spark. The pick-up can take the form of a coil embedded in a mounting bracket which is used to fasten the igniter to the engine.