Extra Oxygen on Commercial Planes: Facts and Procedures in High Altitude Scenarios

Commercial airplanes are equipped with advanced systems to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, especially in the event of a sudden change in cabin pressure. One such safety measure is the provision of extra oxygen, which is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygen levels at high altitudes. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the oxygen systems found on commercial aircraft and the procedures that are followed in case of passenger breathing difficulties at high altitudes.

Understanding the Need for Oxygen on Planes

Airplanes are designed to operate at high altitudes, often above 30,000 feet. At these altitudes, the air pressure is significantly lower, leading to a decrease in the oxygen concentration in the air. As a result, the air that passengers and crew breathe contains less oxygen, which can be problematic for some individuals.

Types of Oxygen Systems on Commercial Airplanes

Commercial aircraft are equipped with a variety of oxygen systems to meet the needs of passengers and crew during high-altitude flights. These systems can be broadly categorized into two types: fixed oxygen systems and portable oxygen systems.

Fixed Oxygen Systems: These systems are integrated into the plane's ventilation system and are designed to provide oxygen to pilots, flight attendants, and sometimes to passengers in the event of a cabin pressure emergency. These systems are usually connected to the plane's oxygen sources and can be accessed through masks or cannulas.

Portable Oxygen Systems: These are typically used for passengers who experience breathing difficulties. They can be in the form of small canisters that release oxygen via a chemical reaction or larger canisters that can be carried around by the passenger. These systems are designed to be portable and are easily accessible to passengers in need.

Procedures During Oxygen Administration

If a passenger or crew member is experiencing breathing difficulties at high altitude, the following procedures are typically followed:

1. Assessment and Communication: The first step is to assess the passenger's condition and communicate with the cabin crew. Flight attendants will provide the necessary assistance and ensure that the passenger is comfortable.

2. Provision of Oxygen: If oxygen is needed, the flight attendant will use the portable oxygen system, which is typically a mask or cannula that is connected to a chemical oxygen generator. The generator produces enough oxygen to support the passenger until the aircraft can be safely brought down to 10,000 feet, which is a procedure known to yield sufficient oxygen levels for most passengers.

3. Monitoring and Adjustment: The flight crew will monitor the passenger's condition and adjust the oxygen supply as necessary. If necessary, medical assistance can be requested through the plane's communication system, and the passenger can be transferred to the plane's medical kit or to the ground for further care.

Challenges and Limitations of Oxygen Systems

While commercial airplanes are equipped with reliable oxygen systems, there are challenges and limitations to consider. For example, the amount of oxygen produced by the chemical generators is limited and is only sufficient to support the drop-down masks for the duration of the emergency. In cases where more oxygen is needed, the aircraft may have to descend to a lower altitude, which can cause discomfort or turbulence for other passengers.

Furthermore, the fixed oxygen systems are typically designed for use by pilots and front-cabin crew. In the event of a widespread emergency affecting multiple passengers, the portable oxygen systems would be the first line of defense, but they may not be able to meet the needs of all passengers.

Emergency Landing Procedures

In the event that it is necessary to make an emergency descent, the flight crew will follow a set of procedures to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. This usually involves:

1. Communication with Air Traffic Control: The flight crew will inform air traffic control of the situation and request permission to descend to a lower altitude. This is a crucial step to ensure safe and coordinated descent.

2. Manual Descent: The crew will manually control the descent to the desired altitude, which is typically 10,000 feet. This altitude is chosen because it is considered safe and comfortable for most passengers and crew to breathe.

3. Landing Preparation: Once the aircraft has descended to the desired altitude, the crew will prepare for a safe landing. This involves ensuring that all passengers and crew are properly secured and that the emergency exits are ready for use.

Conclusion

Commercial airplanes are equipped with advanced oxygen systems to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers during high-altitude flights. While the provision of extra oxygen is crucial for some individuals, the availability and limitations of these systems must be understood. By following established procedures and being prepared for emergencies, commercial airlines can provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are all commercial planes equipped with oxygen systems?
A: Yes, all commercial airplanes are equipped with some form of oxygen system, whether it's integrated into the ventilation system or portable canisters for use during emergencies.

Q: How long can an oxygen generator last?
A: The duration of oxygen generation from a chemical generator is typically sufficient to support the use of drop-down masks for a passenger or crew member.

Q: Can a pilot descend the plane to a lower altitude to provide more oxygen?
A: Yes, in the event of a widespread emergency, the pilot can request and perform an emergency descent to a lower altitude (typically 10,000 feet), which improves oxygen levels for most individuals.

Keywords

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