Final answer:
In case of an emergency descent when an aircraft is above 10000 feet ASL and below 13000 feet ASL for over 30 minutes, sufficient oxygen supply must be available for all crew members and a minimum of 10% of the passengers, ensuring at least one passenger receives oxygen, to prevent hypoxia due to decreased oxygen partial pressure at such altitudes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Minimum Oxygen Requirements for Pressurized Aircraft Following Emergency Descent
The minimum oxygen requirements for a pressurized aircraft following an emergency descent are crucial to ensure the safety and health of passengers and crew. When the entire period of flight exceeds 30 minutes at cabin-pressure altitudes above 10000 feet ASL but not exceeding 13000 feet ASL, specific regulations are applied. According to these regulations, a supply of oxygen must be on hand to accommodate different emergency situations that might arise at such altitudes.
At altitudes above 10000 feet ASL, the partial pressure of oxygen decreases, making it harder for the body to absorb the necessary oxygen. This reduction can lead to hypoxia, a condition where the body is deprived of adequate oxygen levels, potentially resulting in severe cognitive and physical impairments or even being life-threatening. Hence, to mitigate such risks, it's mandated that all crew members and at least 10% of the passengers, with a minimum of one passenger, have access to an oxygen supply during the specified conditions.
As operation of an aircraft involves safety-critical tasks, additional oxygen for crew members ensures that their cognitive functions remain uncompromised, enabling them to perform their duties effectively and handle any emergent issues. The collective safety within an aircraft is hence significantly enhanced by adhering to these minimum oxygen requirements.