Mailing List lml@lancaironline.net Message #64013
From: Jim Scales <joscales98@hotmail.com>
Sender: <marv@lancaironline.net>
Subject: Re: [LML] Re: Nasal canula, 18,000 feet, and the FARs
Date: Wed, 16 Jan 2013 14:44:48 -0500
To: <lml@lancaironline.net>
Don't know if this helps but in looking at FAA publications referencing oxygen use in general aviation I found the following mention of cannulas:

Oxygen Masks and Cannulas

When considering an oxygen mask, you must ensure that the mask you are using is compatible with the delivery system you are using.

Nasal cannulas. These are continuous-flow devices and offer the advantage of personal comfort. They are restricted by federal aviation regulations to 18,000 feet service altitude because of the risk of reducing oxygen-blood saturation levels if one breathes through the mouth or talks too much.


Here is the link to the PDF:


 http://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/Oxygen_Equipment.pdf


I have no opinion on the legal requirements. I will restrict cannula use to below 18K because it makes sense to me.


Jim Scales


On Jan 16, 2013, at 7:33 AM, "Tom Thibbaulttom" <tom@lachollatech.com> wrote:


 Scott,

Yea, I read that of course, but sorry, I don't see it.  Neither "canula" nor "18,000 feet" is even in that para.  The only time "mask" is mentioned is with reference to pressurized A/C flying above FL350.  Don't think any Lancair flies that high.


Is there a reference that does apply?  BTW neither "canula" nor "cannula" even appear in Parts 21, 23 or 91 except in Part 23.1447, the one mentioned before that doesn't apply to us.

Tom T.

§ 91.211   Supplemental oxygen.

(a) General. No person may operate a civil aircraft of U.S. registry—

(1) At cabin pressure altitudes above 12,500 feet (MSL) up to and including 14,000 feet (MSL) unless the required minimum flight crew is provided with and uses supplemental oxygen for that part of the flight at those altitudes that is of more than 30 minutes duration;

(2) At cabin pressure altitudes above 14,000 feet (MSL) unless the required minimum flight crew is provided with and uses supplemental oxygen during the entire flight time at those altitudes; and

(3) At cabin pressure altitudes above 15,000 feet (MSL) unless each occupant of the aircraft is provided with supplemental oxygen.

(b) Pressurized cabin aircraft. (1) No person may operate a civil aircraft of U.S. registry with a pressurized cabin—

(i) At flight altitudes above flight level 250 unless at least a 10-minute supply of supplemental oxygen, in addition to any oxygen required to satisfy paragraph (a) of this section, is available for each occupant of the aircraft for use in the event that a descent is necessitated by loss of cabin pressurization; and

(ii) At flight altitudes above flight level 350 unless one pilot at the controls of the airplane is wearing and using an oxygen mask that is secured and sealed and that either supplies oxygen at all times or automatically supplies oxygen whenever the cabin pressure altitude of the airplane exceeds 14,000 feet (MSL), except that the one pilot need not wear and use an oxygen mask while at or below flight level 410 if there are two pilots at the controls and each pilot has a quick-donning type of oxygen mask that can be placed on the face with one hand from the ready position within 5 seconds, supplying oxygen and properly secured and sealed.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section, if for any reason at any time it is necessary for one pilot to leave the controls of the aircraft when operating at flight altitudes above flight level 350, the remaining pilot at the controls shall put on and use an oxygen mask until the other pilot has returned to that crewmember's station.




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