AME Aerospace Physiology & Human Factors

Question 1

At what altitude does the FAA require supplemental oxygen for flight crew members when flying in an unpressurized cabin above 12,500 feet MSL for more than 30 minutes?

Accepted Answer

Above 12,500 feet MSL for more than 30 minutes; above 14,000 MSL at all times

Answer

14 CFR 91.211 requires supplemental oxygen for required flight crew above 12,500 feet MSL if flight exceeds 30 minutes, and at all times above 14,000 feet MSL.

Question 2

What is the 'time of useful consciousness' (TUC) at 35,000 feet following rapid decompression, and what is its significance for aviation medical examiners?

Accepted Answer

15-20 seconds; AMEs must counsel on the critical importance of immediate oxygen mask donning

Answer

TUC at 35,000 feet following decompression is approximately 15-20 seconds - an extremely short window emphasizing the critical need for immediate oxygen mask donning before incapacitation occurs.

Question 3

What is the primary concern regarding the use of antihistamines by a certificated pilot, and how should the AME counsel on this?

Accepted Answer

First-generation antihistamines cause significant sedation and are not approved for use while flying; second-generation non-sedating antihistamines may be acceptable after an adequate observation period

Answer

First-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine are sedating and not approved for use while flying; second-generation antihistamines may be acceptable for some pilots with an appropriate wait time after dosing.

Question 4

What is decompression sickness (DCS), and at what altitude does it become a significant risk for non-pressurized flight operations?

Accepted Answer

The formation of nitrogen bubbles in tissues due to rapid pressure reduction, significant above 18,000 feet MSL

Answer

DCS results from dissolved nitrogen forming bubbles in tissues and blood when ambient pressure drops rapidly. It becomes a significant risk above approximately 18,000 feet MSL for unacclimatized individuals in non-pressurized aircraft.

Question 5

What physiological phenomenon is primarily responsible for spatial disorientation in IMC flight, and why is it relevant to the AME's evaluation of vestibular disorders?

Accepted Answer

The leans - a vestibular illusion from the semicircular canal limitations and false sensory inputs during sustained turns

Answer

The leans and other vestibular illusions arise because the semicircular canals cannot detect slow rolls below their threshold, leading to false spatial orientation perceptions - directly relevant to AME evaluation of vestibular disorders.

(AME) Aviation Medical Examiner Certification Practice Test

(AME) Aviation Medical Examiner Certification Practice Test

AME Aerospace Physiology & Human Factors