What causes hypoxia in flight?

The most common causes of hypoxia in aviation are: flying, non-pressurized aircraft above 10,000 ft without supplemental oxygen, rapid decompression during flight, pressurization system malfunction, or oxygen system malfunction.



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It can be simply referred to as oxygen deficiency. Hypoxia can be seen in high-altitude flights and dives at shallow levels, and hypoxia may also occur as a result of major disorders. Although it is rarely seen during flight, it is a serious disorder that requires professional help.

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For best protection, you are encouraged to use supplemental oxygen above 10,000 feet MSL. At night, because vision is particularly sensitive to diminished oxygen, a prudent rule is to use supplemental oxygen when flying above 6,000 feet MSL. So, when you fly at high altitudes, supplemental oxygen is the only solution.

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There are four main stages of hypoxia:
  • The Indifferent Stage occurs between sea level and 10,000 feet of altitude. ...
  • The Compensatory Stage occurs between 10,000-15,000 feet of altitude. ...
  • The Disturbance Stage occurs between 15,000-20,000 feet. ...
  • The Critical Stage happens between 20,000 feet and beyond. ...
  • ATM = Atmospheres.


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Some patients, however, are in need of more advanced pre-flight testing using a hypoxia-altitude simulation test (HAST), breathing a gas mixture with 15.1% oxygen, corresponding to an aircraft cabin altitude of 8000 feet (2438 m) [5–7].

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The only oxygen equipment allowed on an airplane is the portable oxygen concentrator (POC). If you need oxygen in flight, you must take a portable oxygen concentrator with you, and , you must let your airline know ahead of time. They may require a doctor's letter to verify the need for the POC on the plane.

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Oxygen production cannot be shut off once a mask is pulled, and oxygen production typically lasts at least 15 minutes, sufficient for the plane to descend to a safe altitude for breathing without supplemental oxygen.

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Hydration: Remember to drink plenty of water before flying, even if you tossed your liquids at the security checkpoint. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, both of which can lead to dehydration. Get up and stretch: Especially on long flights, walk around the cabin and stretch the legs.

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Most pilots don't think too much about using portable oxygen. Sure, everyone knows that you have to use supplemental oxygen if you fly more than 30 minutes at cabin pressure altitudes of 12,500 feet or higher. And that at cabin altitudes above 14,000 feet pilots must use oxygen at all times.

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