What are the oxygen requirements for all crew and passengers?

The oxygen requirements for crew and passengers vary depending on altitude. At 15,000 feet and above, all crew members are required to use supplemental oxygen, irrespective of the duration of exposure. This is based on the physiological effects of reduced atmospheric pressure, which can lead to hypoxia.

At this altitude, the partial pressure of oxygen in the air decreases significantly, making it insufficient for sustaining adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream without supplemental oxygen. While there are certain oxygen regulations for other altitudes—such as above 12,500 feet where supplemental oxygen must be provided for passengers after a 30-minute exposure period—15,000 feet is the threshold where immediate supplemental oxygen use becomes necessary for all individuals in the aircraft.

Therefore, knowing these requirements is critical for ensuring safety and compliance with aviation regulations at higher altitudes.