High Altitude Operations - QT
Updated: Apr 20, 2021
Lesson Quicktakes cover the items that should be memorized from each of the wifiCFI Lessons. They do not cover all of the lesson details in-depth.
TRAINING REQUIREMENT
If aircraft has a service ceiling or maximum operating altitude above 25,000’ MSL.
OXYGEN REQUIREMENTS
Above 12,500’ MSL = Oxygen used for anytime over 30 min (by the flight crew).
Above 14,000’ MSL = Flight crew must use oxygen for the entire duration.
Above 15,000’ MSL = Each occupant provided with oxygen (they do not have to use).
HYPOXIA
Not enough oxygen.
Hypoxic Hypoxia = Not enough oxygen in the environment (high altitudes).
Hypemic Hypoxia = Oxygen cannot attach to blood cells (CO poisoning).
Stagnant Hypoxia = Blood not flowing (G-Forces).
Histotoxic Hypoxia = Brain rejects oxygen molecules (drugs and alcohol).
Symptoms of Hypoxia:
Cyanosis (blue fingernails and lips).
Headache.
Decreased Response times.
Impaired Judgement.
Euphoria.
Visual Impairment.
Drowsiness.
Dizzy Sensations.
Numbness.
Tingling in Fingers and Toes.
Hypoxia Corrective Actions:
Descend.
Put on an Oxygen Mask.
Stop pulling G-Forces.
DCS
Decompression Sickness
SCUBA DIVING WAIT TIMES

OTHER PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS

OUTFLOW VALVES
Open and close automatically to keep cabin pressure altitude.
TURBOCHARGERS

OXYGEN SYSTEMS
Continuous Flow System = Continuously supplies oxygen.
Diluter and Pressure Demand Systems = Provide more oxygen at higher altitudes and less oxygen at lower altitudes. Provide oxygen when the user inhales.
Quick Donning Masks = Can be placed on the face with one hand in under 5 seconds.
DECOMPRESSION
Rapid Decompression:
Lungs decompress faster than the cabin.
Caused by a small leak.
Explosive Decompression:
Cabin decompresses faster than lungs (leads to lung damage).
Caused by a large/fast leak.
TIMES OF USEFUL CONSCIOUSNESS
