How can a pilot ensure they have enough oxygen for longer flights above 13,000 ASL?

How can a pilot ensure they have enough oxygen for longer flights above 13,000 ASL?

• A. Provide oxygen for all passengers for at least one hour plus duration
• B. Limit the number of passengers on board
• C. Use a shared oxygen supply
• D. Increase the number of crew members

Answer: (A)

The correct answer highlights the importance of providing supplemental oxygen for all passengers during longer flights above 13,000 feet Above Sea Level (ASL). At these altitudes, the partial pressure of oxygen decreases significantly, which can lead to hypoxia (insufficient oxygen to the brain and body). By supplying oxygen for all passengers, the pilot ensures that everyone onboard can maintain proper oxygen levels, preventing any potential impairment or risk to safety. This practice is crucial for maintaining alertness and performance, especially during extended flight durations where fatigue and hypoxia can compromise decision-making and physical abilities. The emphasis on at least one hour plus duration underlines the need to factor in unexpected delays or extended periods of altitude flight, which could also impact oxygen consumption. This provision is part of safety regulations and good operational practice for ensuring passenger welfare on flights at high altitudes.

The correct answer highlights the importance of providing supplemental oxygen for all passengers during longer flights above 13,000 feet Above Sea Level (ASL). At these altitudes, the partial pressure of oxygen decreases significantly, which can lead to hypoxia (insufficient oxygen to the brain and body).

By supplying oxygen for all passengers, the pilot ensures that everyone onboard can maintain proper oxygen levels, preventing any potential impairment or risk to safety. This practice is crucial for maintaining alertness and performance, especially during extended flight durations where fatigue and hypoxia can compromise decision-making and physical abilities.

The emphasis on at least one hour plus duration underlines the need to factor in unexpected delays or extended periods of altitude flight, which could also impact oxygen consumption. This provision is part of safety regulations and good operational practice for ensuring passenger welfare on flights at high altitudes.