Pilot George Braly recalls a flight in which his portable oxygen line becomes kinked and he ultimately loses conciousness. George is awakened by ATC and is able to increase the oxygen flow and safely descend from the high-altitude flight.
In this episode AIN delves into the issue of hypoxia by examining both portable and built-in oxygen systems. Additionally we discuss the FAA regulations that require one pilot when flying in a pressurized aircraft above 41,000 to use an oxygen mask at all times. Studies have shown that 82 percent of business aircraft pilots openly disregard this rule, and this episode discusses the human factors involved in oxygen mask use on long flights and possible solutions to this problem.
In this episode we will hear from:
- George Braly, pilot-in-command of the Cirrus with the kinked oxygen hose
- Dr. Brent Blue, senior Aviation Medical Examiner
- Rob Schaeffer, product director, Environmental Systems, Cobham Mission Systems
- Chris Shaver, author of the study, "Hypoxia Training and Pilot Use of Supplemental Oxygen Above 25,000 Feet"
- Rick Miller, chairman of the High Altitude Supplemental Oxygen Working Group
Topics in this episode include:
- Supplemental oxygen regulations
- Oxygen mask use at high altitudes
- Hypoxia and symptoms of hypoxia
- Portable oxygen systems
Read Supplemental Oxygen: The Secret of Non-compliance.