The FAA today published a Direct Final Rule amending its regulation on the use of pilot supplemental oxygen. According to the rule, “[t]he amendment changes the flight level at which the remaining pilot at the controls of the airplane must put on and use his oxygen mask if the other pilot at any time leaves his control station of the airplane. This amendment revises that altitude to “above flight level 350” from “above flight level 250.” This rule should help Part 121 air carriers save money by eliminating the excessive use of oxygen that is not otherwise required to provide for safety and also help reduce expenditures to replace oxygen equipment by reducing wear and tear.
The rule is ffective January 9, 2006, but comments will still be included in the Rules Docket if received on or before December 27, 2005. If you would like further information regarding the rule or the basis for the amendment, you can contact Michael J. Coffey, Air Transportation Division (AFS-220), Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; Telephone No. (202) 267-3750.
