top of page

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


bottom of page