ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the challenges involved in operating fast jet aircraft in a low-pressure, low-oxygen environment. While all aircraft are exposed to the potentially adverse effects of altitude, the fast jet’s performance envelope means that it can undergo very rapid altitude change. The low-pressure environment can cause a number of problems for aircrew, such as ear and sinus barotrauma. The problem of hypoxia owing to the low oxygen content of the atmosphere at altitude is a very serious issue. However, at high altitudes there may be insufficient molecules of oxygen available to satisfy the body’s basic demand, leading to the onset of the signs and symptoms of hypoxia. Tolerance to hypoxia is a multi-factorial phenomenon. Various risk factors can increase the likelihood of hypoxic symptoms occurring on a given day. Well before unconsciousness occurs, the symptoms of hypoxia can clearly impact upon a pilot’s ability to safely operate the aircraft.
