Private Pilot Private Exam

Unless each occupant is provided with supplemental oxygen, no person may operate a civil aircraft of US registry above a maximum cabin pressure altitude of...

1. 15,000 feet MSL

2. 18,000 feet MSL

3. 12,500 feet MSL

4. 10,000 feet MSL

The correct answer is: 15,000 feet MSL

The correct answer relates to regulations that govern the use of supplemental oxygen in civil aircraft. The requirement states that if the cabin pressure altitude exceeds 14,000 feet, each occupant should have supplemental oxygen available. This regulation aims to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, as oxygen levels can drop significantly at higher altitudes, leading to physiological effects like hypoxia. The threshold for operating civil aircraft without requiring each occupant to have supplemental oxygen is established at 15,000 feet MSL. When an aircraft operates above this altitude, the need for supplemental oxygen becomes critical, especially for those who might not be acclimated to lower oxygen levels found at higher altitudes. Understanding these altitudes helps pilots maintain safety and adhere to regulatory standards while operating in various flight environments.