I get a tight feeling between my eyes, same as having two
beers when at 25,000 feet without O2. This was same
reaction every time I've been in the chamber at OKC. A
person in good health can do OK at 15,000 for some time if
they are not required to think or do any tasks. Hypoxia is
a cheap drunk for me, but I am peaceful and polite.

The pilot must use O2 any time above 14,000 while it must
only be available for passengers at 15,000. Personally, I
use O2 at and above 10,000 if it is available. At night,
you can notice the difference as low as 5,000 feet.

If you start using O2, leave it on until you're back to a
lower altitude, blood saturation drops very quickly and a
quick shot will bring you UP but it doesn't last unless you
stay on the O2. You can set the O2 regulator to deliver the
required amount of oxygen to maintain the blood at close to
100%, but you must keep it at 95% to stay fully alert. If
you have the available supply, everybody should use O2 at
10-12,000 or above.

The rules for Part 91 are not as tight as Part 135. Make
sure that you explain how to use and why to your passengers
and do a check to be sure everybody is getting their O2
[hoses get kinked, masks not on or sealed, tank empty.]
BTW, an O2 tank should never be run below 100 PSI, keeps all
the gas inside dry and rust free.



--
James H. Macklin
ATP,CFI,A&P

--
The people think the Constitution protects their rights;
But government sees it as an obstacle to be overcome.
some support
http://www.usdoj.gov/olc/secondamendment2.htm
See http://www.fija.org/ more about your rights and duties.


"Peter R." wrote in message
...
| Jim Macklin wrote:
|
| You can have them use O2 when above 15,000 feet, they'll
be
| quieter without it.
|
| My concern had to do with the other side effects of lower
O2 in their
| blood, as in dizziness, nausea, irritability, etc.
|
|
| --
| Peter