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Pilot’s Operating Manual
Revision A1: Nov, 2002
Hawker 800XP Pro Line 21
Section VII - SAFETY INFORMATION
Should symptoms occur that cannot definitely be identified as either hypoxia or hyperventilation, try
three or four deep breaths of oxygen. The symptoms should improve markedly if the condition was
hypoxia (recovery from hypoxia is rapid).
Pilots who fly to altitudes that require or may require the use of supplemental oxygen should be
thoroughly familiar with the operation of the airplane oxygen systems. A preflight inspection of the
system should be performed, including proper fit of the mask.
The passengers should be briefed on the proper use of their oxygen system before flight.
Pilots who wear beards should make sure their beard is carefully trimmed so that it will not interfere with
proper sealing of the oxygen masks. If you wear a beard or moustache, test the fit of your oxygen mask
on the ground for proper sealing. Studies conducted by the military and oxygen equipment
manufacturers conclude that oxygen masks do not seal over beards or heavy facial hair.
Federal Aviation Regulations related to the use of supplemental oxygen by flight crew and passengers
must be adhered to if flight to higher altitudes is to be accomplished safely. Passengers with significant
circulatory or lung disease may need to use supplemental oxygen at lower altitudes than specified by
these regulations.
Pilots of pressurized airplanes should receive physiological training with emphasis on hypoxia and the
use of oxygen and oxygen systems. Pilots of airplanes with pressure demand oxygen systems should
undergo training, experience altitude chamber decompression, and be familiar with pressure breathing
before flying at high altitude. This training is available throughout the United States at nominal cost.
Information regarding this training may be obtained by request from the Chief, Civil Aeromedical
Institute, Attention: Aeromedical Education Branch, AAC-140, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,
P. O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125.
Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation, or overbreathing, is a disturbance of respiration that may occur in individuals as a
result of emotional tension or anxiety. Under conditions of emotional stress, fright, or pain, breathing
rate may increase, causing increased lung ventilation, although the carbon dioxide output of the body
cells does not increase.
As a result, carbon dioxide is "washed out" of the blood. The most common symptoms of
hyperventilation are: dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, and finally, unconsciousness. If the symptoms
persist, discontinue use of oxygen and consciously slow your breathing rate until symptoms clear, and
then resume normal breathing rate. Normal breathing can be aided by talking aloud.
