Hypoxia: USAF experience 1970-1980.

During 1970-80, 298 USAF aircrewmen were reported as having experienced in-flight hypoxia. Although none of the incidents resulted in an aircraft accident, the potential was there in that many of the reported symptoms were incapacitating to some degree. Most often, the cause of the hypoxia incident was due to cockpit/cabin depressurization or some other malfunction of the oxygen system. However, it was sometimes due to poor oxygen discipline. The authors emphasize that, with a thorough preflight inspection of the mask, hose, and connections as well as a PRICE check, the risk of in-flight hypoxia would be significantly reduced.