Chapter 11 References: FTGU pages 303 - 314 Human Factors Chapter 11 References: FTGU pages 303 - 314

Hypoxia Hypoxia When flying very high, the lack of oxygen leads to Hypoxia. This condition comes on without warning of any kind, suplementary oxygen must be available in any aircraft that will be flown about 10,000 feet. General rule of oxygen above 10,000 feet ASL by day and above 5,000 feet ASL by night. Can be defined as a lack of sufficient oxygen in the body cells or tissues

Effects on Vision at 5,000 ft Hypoxia occurs at 5,000 feet in the form of diminished night vision. Instruments and charts are misread; dimly lit ground features are misinterpreted.

Scuba Diving and Flying A person that flies in an airplane immediately after scuba diving risks severe decompression sickness. Flights up to 8,000 feet should be avoided for 12 - 24 hours.

Thunderstorms Do not fly through or near a thunderstorm. The blinding flashes destroy night adaptation. Turn the cockpit lights full bright if you are in the vicinity of lightning activity in order to prevent lightning blindness.

Spatial Disorientation Means loss of bearing or confusion concerning one’s sense of position or movement in relation to the surface of the earth. Disorientation rarely occurs without reduced visual references in such situation as fog, cloud, snow, rain, etc…

Coriolis Effect Most dangerous type of disorientation. The three semicircular canal of the inner ear are interconnected. If movement happens in two of them, a sympathetic but more violent movement is induced in the third. Causes extreme confusion, and nausea. Happens when the airplane is in a turn, the pilot suddenly turns his head in another direction.

Blood donations If blood donation has been made, you should wait at least 48 hours before flying.

The End!