Chapter 17 Aeromdical Factors

Question 1

What is the primary goal of the FAA in relation to aero medical factors?

Answer 1

The FAA aims to ensure that pilots are physically and mentally fit to operate aircraft safely by evaluating arrow medical factors such as vision, hearing cardiovascular health and mental health

Question 2

What are some of the common health issues that can affect a pilot ability to fly?

Answer 2

Common health issues include vision, impairment, hearing loss, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and mental health and health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

Question 3

What is a hypoxia and how can it affect a pilot?

Answer 3

Hypoxia is a condition where the body doesn’t get enough oxygen it can lead to impaired judgment, reduced motor skills and even loss of consciousness if not addressed.
Pilots flying at high altitudes are at increased risk

Question 4

What are the signs and symptoms of hypoxia?

Answer 4

Symptoms of hypoxia include shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, euphoria, difficulty, concentrating, and confusion

Question 5

How can a pilot prevent hypoxia while flying at high altitudes?

Answer 5

Pilots can prevent hypoxia by using supplemental oxygen while flying above 12,500 feet for extended periods or above 14,000 feet for any duration of the time.

Question 6

What is hyperventilation and how can it affect a pilot in flight?

Answer 6

Hyperventilation occurs when a person breathe, excessively fast and shallow reducing level of carbon dioxide in the blood. It can cause dizziness tingling in the fingers and toes and lots of concentration, which can impair a pilot’s ability to fly safely.

Question 7

How can a pilot address hyperventilation in flight?

Answer 7

To address hyper ventilation pilot should breed slowly and deeply trying to regain a normal breathing pattern. It may also help to breathe into a paper bag to introduce carbon dioxide in the blood.

Question 8

What is the effect of alcohol on a pilot ability to fly?

Answer 8

Alcohol, impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time all of which are critical for safety flying. It also increases the risk of hypoxia and dehydration at altitude the FAA mandates that pilots wait at least eight hours after drinking alcohol before flying “the bottle of throttle” rule.

Question 9

What is the bottle to throttle roll and why is it important?

Answer 9

The bottle of throttle roll requires that pilot refrain from flying within eight hours after consuming alcohol and that their blood alcohol concentration must be below .04%. The rule helps ensure pilots are not impaired while.

Question 10

How does stress affect a pilot performance

Answer 10

Stress, impaired decision-making lead to poor judgment and cause physical symptoms, such as fat headaches, high levels of stress can decrease concentration reaction time, and the ability to maintain control of the aircraft

Question 11

What are some common physiological factors that can impaired pilots performance?

Answer 11

Common physiological factors include anxiety, depression, stress, and fatigue. These can lead to poor decision-making, decreased attention and impaired situational awareness.

Question 12

What is the role of the FAA medical examination for pilots?

Answer 12

The medication examination he valued to pilot overall health and fitness to ensure that they meet the physical and mental standards required for a safe flight. It includes testing for vision, hearing cardiovascular health, neurological conditions, and more.

Question 13

What are the three classes of FAAA medical certificates and what are the basic requirements for each?

Answer 13

First class medical requires airline transport pilot must meet strict health standard

Second class requires for a commercial pilots, less stringent than the first class

Third class required for a private pilot has the least strength health standards. Each class has specific health criteria such as vision, hearing test and the applicant must meet medical center based on their age and medical history.

Question 14

What is the most common cause of medical disqualification for pilots?

Answer 14

The most common cause our vision impairment suggest poor, distant visions or color, blindness, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders mental health conditions like depression. Anxiety may also be disqualifying.

Question 15

What is the FAA policy on taking medication while flying?

Answer 15

The VA prohibits the use of certain medication while flying because they can compare a pilot ability to operate an aircraft safety pilots must report all medication they are taking and some medications are required special waiver to be used while flying.

Question 16

How does the FAA classify vision requirements for pilots?

Answer 16

Pilots must have at least 20/40 vision with or without correction in each eye and the ability to precede color necessary for the same performance of airman duty. Some expectations may apply to base on specific conditions.

Question 17

What are the common causes of hearing loss in pilots

Answer 17

Hearing loss can result from prolong exposure to loud engine noises rapid change in air pressure heat related hearing decline pilots must have sufficient hearing ability to understand radio, transmissions, and communicate effectively

Question 18

How can physical fitness impact a pilot ability to fly?

Answer 18

Good physical fitness health maintain cardiovascular health you need to physical endurance

Question 19

What are some methods for mitigating the effects of GForce during flight?

Answer 19

Pilots can mitigate GeForce by wearing specialized flight suits maintaining proper hydration and performing specific breathing techniques. Additionally, gradual entry into hygiene. Maneuvering can help reduce the risk of induce loss of consciousness.

Question 20

What is the role of sleep in pilot safety

Answer 20

Adequate sleep is essential in maintaining alertness, cognitive function, and reaction time

Question 21

What is the effect of sudden decompression on a pilot’s health and performance?

Answer 21

Sudden decompression can lead to hypoxia( lack of oxygen) I can cause rapid physical deterioration, including lots of consciousness, severe headaches, and dizziness. Pilot should use supplemental oxygen, if flying at high altitude and masks or cabin pressure systems can prevent decompression illness.

Question 22

What is spatial disorientation and how can it affect pilot string flight?

Answer 22

Spatial disorientation occurs when a pilots perception of their orientation in space is incorrect, usually due to the lack of visual reference or confusion between the bodies sensations and actual position of the aircraft it could lead to loss of control specifically in conditions with the poor visibility

Question 23

How can a pilot reduce the risk of spatial disorientation?

Answer 23

Pilots can reduce the risk of spatial disorientation by relying on instrument, staying current with instrument flight training and avoiding flying in conditions where visibility is poor, such as in heavy clouds, darkness or turbulence

Question 24

What’s the primary cause of vertigo during Flight?

Answer 24

The sensation of vertical often occurs when the inner ears sense of balance is disturbed specially during flight maneuvers or when the flying is at high altitude

Question 25

How does the vestibular system affect the pilot’s perception of movement during flight?

Answer 25

The vestibular system located in the inner ear, helps, detect changes in motion and orientation. However, the system can provide inaccurate signals dream flight leading to spatial disorientation. Pilots must rely on instruments rather than their sensations to meeting accurate orientation in Flight.

Question 26

What is hypoxia, and what are the four types?

Answer 26

Hypoxia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient oxygen. The four types are: 1. Hypoxic Hypoxia – Caused by insufficient oxygen in the air (e.g., high altitude). 2. Hypemic Hypoxia – Caused by the blood’s inability to carry oxygen (e.g., carbon monoxide poisoning). 3. Stagnant Hypoxia – Caused by poor circulation (e.g., G-forces or cold temperatures). 4. Histotoxic Hypoxia – Caused by the body’s inability to use oxygen (e.g., alcohol or drugs).

Question 27

What are the symptoms of hypoxia?

Answer 27

Symptoms include euphoria, confusion, dizziness, poor coordination, cyanosis (blue fingertips/lips), drowsiness, and unconsciousness.

Question 28

What is the best way to prevent hypoxia?

Answer 28

• Use supplemental oxygen above 10,000 feet during the day and 5,000 feet at night. • Descend to a lower altitude if symptoms appear.

Question 29

What is hyperventilation, and what causes it?

Answer 29

Hyperventilation is excessive breathing, causing too much carbon dioxide to be expelled. It is usually caused by stress, anxiety, or rapid breathing at altitude.

Question 30

How can a pilot counteract hyperventilation?

Answer 30

Control breathing by breathing slowly into a paper bag or talking out loud. • Reduce stress by staying calm and focused on flying the aircraft.

Question 31

What is carbon monoxide poisoning, and why is it dangerous for pilots

Answer 31

Carbon monoxide (CO) binds to hemoglobin in the blood, preventing oxygen from reaching the body’s tissues. It can cause hypemic hypoxia, unconsciousness, and even death.

Question 32

What are the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Answer 32

Symptoms include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, blurred vision, and nausea.

Question 33

How can pilots prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

Answer 33

Ensure proper ventilation in the cockpit. • Check the exhaust system for leaks. • Use carbon monoxide detectors in the aircraft.

Question 34

What is decompression sickness, and when can it occur?

Answer 34

Decompression sickness (also called “the bends”) occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream due to rapid ascent from a high-pressure environment (e.g., scuba diving or rapid altitude change).

Question 35

How long should a pilot wait after scuba diving before flying?

Answer 35

At least 12 hours before flying up to 8,000 feet MSL. • At least 24 hours before flying above 8,000 feet MSL.

Question 36

What is spatial disorientation?

Answer 36

Spatial disorientation occurs when the body’s sensory systems (inner ear, vision, and proprioception) send conflicting signals to the brain, making it difficult to determine the aircraft’s position.

Question 37

What is the “leans” illusion?

Answer 37

The leans occur when a slow roll is not detected by the inner ear, and the pilot incorrectly perceives being upright after returning to level flight.

Question 38

What is the graveyard spiral?

Answer 38

A graveyard spiral happens when a pilot in a turn loses visual references and mistakenly believes they are flying straight and level. They pull back on the controls, tightening the spiral and increasing descent rate, leading to an uncontrolled crash.

Question 39

What is the somatogravic illusion?

Answer 39

The somatogravic illusion occurs when rapid acceleration (e.g., during takeoff) makes the pilot feel like they are pitching up, leading them to push the nose down unintentionally.

Question 40

What is autokinesis, and how can it affect night flying?

Answer 40

Autokinesis occurs when a stationary light appears to move after staring at it for too long in the dark. This can lead pilots to misinterpret aircraft position or make unnecessary control inputs.

Question 41

What are some techniques to prevent spatial disorientation?

Answer 41

• Rely on instruments, not bodily sensations. • Avoid sudden head movements in IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions). • Maintain proper training in instrument flight to recognize illusions.

Question 42

What is the best way to recover from spatial disorientation

Answer 42

Trust the instruments, not the body’s sensations. • Use a standard recovery technique, such as the four-step instrument scan. • Reduce stress and workload by focusing on basic attitude flying.

Question 43

What is the FAA’s regulation regarding alcohol consumption before flying?

Answer 43

No flying within 8 hours of alcohol consumption (“bottle to throttle”). • Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) must be below 0.04%. • No flying while under the influence of alcohol.

Question 44

What are the two types of stress?

Answer 44

1. Acute Stress – Short-term stress from immediate challenges (e.g., an emergency in flight). 2. Chronic Stress – Long-term stress from ongoing issues (e.g., work, finances, personal problems).

Question 45

What is the “IMSAFE” checklist, and how is it used?

Answer 45

The IMSAFE checklist helps pilots assess their fitness for flight: • I – Illness (Am I sick?) • M – Medication (Am I taking any drugs that impair performance?) • S – Stress (Am I mentally fit?) • A – Alcohol (Have I waited at least 8 hours and stayed under 0.04% BAC?) • F – Fatigue (Am I well-rested?) • E – Eating & Hydration (Am I nourished and hydrated?)

Question 46

What are the FAA’s rules regarding prescription and OTC medications?

Answer 46

• Pilots must ensure medications do not impair their ability to fly. • Certain medications require grounding until effects are gone. • The FAA provides a list of approved and prohibited medications.

Question 47

What is barotrauma, and how does it affect the ears?

Answer 47

Barotrauma occurs when the Eustachian tubes in the ears fail to equalize pressure during altitude changes, causing pain or temporary hearing loss.

Question 48

What techniques can pilots use to equalize ear pressure?

Answer 48

• Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum. • Performing the Valsalva maneuver (pinching nose and gently exhaling). • Descending slowly to allow pressure equalization.

Question 49

What is the difference between decompression sickness and hypoxia?

Answer 49

• Hypoxia is caused by low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. • Decompression sickness is caused by nitrogen bubbles forming in the blood due to rapid ascent from a high-pressure environment.

Question 50

What factors increase the risk of decompression sickness?

Answer 50

• Flying after scuba diving. • Rapid altitude changes. • Prolonged exposure to high altitudes.

Question 51

What should a pilot do if they suspect decompression sickness?

Answer 51

• Descend immediately to a lower altitude. • Seek medical attention (hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be required).

Question 52

What is the FAA’s recommended waiting time after blood donation before flying?

Answer 52

At least 24 hours, as blood loss can cause dizziness, fatigue, and low oxygen levels.

Question 53

How can pilots improve their night vision?

Answer 53

• Use supplemental oxygen above 5,000 feet MSL. • Allow 30 minutes for dark adaptation before flight. • Avoid bright lights in the cockpit.

Question 54

What is “empty field myopia,” and how does it affect pilots?

Answer 54

Empty field myopia occurs when the eyes struggle to focus in a featureless environment (e.g., flying in haze, clouds, or at night). Pilots may fail to see distant objects, like other aircraft.

Question 55

How can pilots counteract empty field myopia?

Answer 55

• Continuously shift focus between near and far objects. • Scan the horizon regularly.

Question 56

What is the FAA’s policy on flying after taking antihistamines?

Answer 56

Many antihistamines cause drowsiness, and pilots must wait at least five times the dosing interval before flying (e.g., if taken every 6 hours, wait 30 hours).

Question 57

What is the difference between a first, second, and third-class medical certificate?

Answer 57

• First-class: Required for ATP (Airline Transport Pilot); expires in 6-12 months, depending on age. • Second-class: Required for commercial pilots; expires in 12 months. • Third-class: Required for private/recreational pilots; expires in 24-60 months, depending on age.

Question 58

What is BasicMed, and who can use it?

Answer 58

BasicMed allows private pilots to fly without an FAA medical certificate, as long as they: • Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license. • Have passed a BasicMed exam every 48 months. • Complete online training every 24 months.

Question 59

What are the limitations of BasicMed?

Answer 59

• Cannot fly aircraft weighing more than 6,000 lbs. • Cannot carry more than 5 passengers (6 people total). • Cannot fly above 18,000 feet MSL or exceed 250 knots IAS. • Cannot fly for compensation or hire.

Question 60

What are the three types of vision used in flight

Answer 60

1. Photopic – Daylight vision (cone cells). 2. Mesopic – Dawn/dusk vision (both rods and cones). 3. Scotopic – Night vision (rod cells only

Question 61

What is the recommended visual scanning technique for spotting other aircraft?

Answer 61

Use a series of short, regularly spaced eye movements, pausing every 10°–15° horizontally and vertically, instead of a continuous sweep.

Question 62

What illusion can occur when flying over featureless terrain (like water or snow)?

Answer 62

False horizon illusion – the pilot may misalign the aircraft with a sloped cloud layer, shoreline, or other visual cues that resemble the horizon.

Question 63

What is the black hole illusion?

Answer 63

It happens during night approaches over dark terrain where the lack of ground lights leads to a false sense of altitude, causing pilots to fly a dangerously low approach.

Question 64

How can pilots avoid visual illusions during approach and landing?

Answer 64

Rely on instruments and visual glidepath aids (e.g., VASI/PAPI). • Maintain consistent approach procedures and descent rates.

Question 65

What is a runway width illusion?

Answer 65

A narrow runway can make the aircraft appear higher, causing a low approach, while a wider runway can cause a high approach.

Question 66

What illusion might occur during a rapid descent in IMC?

Answer 66

The inversion illusion – a sudden change from climb to level flight may feel like the aircraft is tumbling backward, leading the pilot to pitch down unnecessarily.

Question 67

What is flicker vertigo, and what causes it?

Answer 67

Flicker vertigo is a disorientation or nausea caused by flickering light, such as sunlight passing through a spinning propeller or rotor.

Question 68

What is “pressurization” in aviation, and why is it important?

Answer 68

Pressurization maintains cabin pressure at safe levels so that passengers and crew receive adequate oxygen, especially at altitudes above 12,500 feet MSL.

Question 69

What happens during a rapid decompression?

Answer 69

Cabin pressure drops suddenly, causing: • Fogging, • Loud noise, • Possible hypoxia, • Disorientation, • Cold temperatures.

Question 70

What is Time of Useful Consciousness (TUC)?

Answer 70

TUC is the amount of time a pilot can function effectively after oxygen is lost at altitude. For example: • At 35,000 feet: ~30 seconds • At 18,000 feet: ~20–30 minutes

Question 71

Why is oxygen use important above certain altitudes?

Answer 71

• Above 12,500 feet MSL: Required for crew if exposure >30 minutes. • Above 14,000 feet MSL: Oxygen required for crew at all times. • Above 15,000 feet MSL: Must be available to passengers.