How can hypoxia be avoided during flight?

Using supplemental oxygen above 10,000 feet during the day is an effective way to avoid hypoxia during flight. At altitudes above 10,000 feet, the atmospheric pressure decreases, which means that the amount of oxygen available in the air also decreases. This reduction can impair cognitive and physical performance, leading to symptoms of hypoxia if the body does not receive enough oxygen. Supplemental oxygen provides the necessary oxygen intake to ensure that the pilot and passengers are able to maintain adequate oxygen levels in their blood, reducing the risk of hypoxia.

While drinking plenty of water is important for overall health and can help mitigate the effects of dehydration, it does not directly address the issue of oxygen availability at high altitudes. Similarly, avoiding mountainous terrain may help in certain navigation contexts but does not prevent exposure to high-altitude conditions where hypoxia can occur. Maintaining cabin pressure is critical in pressurized aircraft, as it allows for a controlled environment that can help prevent hypoxia. However, for unpressurized aircraft, the use of supplemental oxygen is vital once above the altitude threshold. Hence, using supplemental oxygen is the most straightforward and proven method to counteract the effects of hypoxia in flight.