Passenger Oxygen Masks, Supplemental Oxygen

Abstract

Modern transportation aircraft are operating at maximum flight altitudes well above FL400. In case of rapid or explosive decompression the time of useful consciousness is less than 15 seconds and the Quick-Donning masks for cockpit use must provide a positive pressure of about 25mbar above FL430 with 100% O2 to maintain a sufficient oxygenation. This presentation will show preliminary results of an aeronautical study that was conducted in February 2010 at the A330 FFS of Zentrum für Flugsimulation Berlin, now installed at the Finnair Training Center (FTC) in Helsinki. 18 pilots were separated into two groups (with and without training of positive pressure breathing, PPB), and then flying a rotor burst scenario at FL430 with rapid decompression in 20 sec, subjected to 25mbar positive pressure on a prototype Quick-Donning mask, operating as a single pilot at high altitude in manual mode (without autopilot). Parameters investigated were mask handling, initiation of emergency descent, and aircraft handling during manual flight; the participants had to divert and to land at an ETOPS alternate airport. The experiment was performed with full ATC and cabin communications, using rating procedures typical for simulator training. Finally, subjective opinions on work load, performance, and special aspects of the scenario described were assessed by a set of comprehensive questionnaires. 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 masks with positive pressure breathing.