Improved decompression training with modified oxygen mask with positive pressure

Kurzfassung

New aircraft like the B787 and A350 are able to fly in higher altitude up to FL440. In case of a rapid or an explosive decompression the time of useful consciousness is less than 15 seconds and the oxygen mask have to provide a positive pressure to maintain a sufficient oxygenation. The presentation show results of an aeronautical study using a certified Airbus A330 Full Flight Simulator that was conducted in February 2010. The key questions of the study were: What are the effects of positive pressure breathing on pilot performance? What are safety problems during emergency descent under single pilot operations? How can decompression training in full flight simulators be improved? During the simulator investigation, oxygen masks with positive pressure function were used. The participants had to execute a rapid decompression in an altitude of FL430 under single pilot operation and manual flight. After the decompression the participants had to divert and to land at an ETOPS alternate airport. The experiment was performed with full ATC and cabin communications. The investigation has shown that pilots had no practical experience with the use and handling of positive pressure breathing, which has significant impact. The study shows that training can be improved and new safety aspects can be identified during complex scenarios and by using modified oxygen mask with positive pressure.