1.5 Physiology of Flight

Training Objective:

The trainee will be able to identify and describe the most common physiological effects of flight in pressurized and non-pressurized aircraft including likely causes, recognition and ways to minimize these effects.

Scope:

General
Effects of Altitude

1.5A General

1.5A.1 Describe the physiology of respiration and circulation.

1.5A.2 Identify the body's requirement for oxygen and the potential for crew member incapacitation due to lack of oxygen.

1.5A.3 Describe the most common physiological effects of altitude and the pressurized cabin, including but not limited to: varicose veins, dehydration, effects of trapped gasses, water retention, etc.

1.5A.4 Describe the circumstances under which carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning may occur, the signs and symptoms, ways to detect it and minimize its effects. Include the potential for CO poisoning from ground air conditioning units or as a result of a ground-heating unit (i.e. Herman-Nelson, Ground Power Unit).

1.5B Effects of Altitude

1.5B.1 Define what is meant by decompression sickness and describe the physiological effects of pressure changes on gases in the body. Define "safe" times between scuba diving and flight.

1.5B.2 Define what is meant by hypoxia, the hazards associated with it, signs and symptoms, ways to detect it and minimize its effects.

1.5B.3 Define Time of Useful Consciousness and factors affecting it.

1.5B.4 Identify persons most susceptible to the effects of hypoxia.

1.5B.5 Describe the effects of altitude on night vision and the impact this has on flight safety and personal safety.