Readback: June 2021

IFR Staff

Monday, May 24, 2021 at 02:01 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Supplemental oxygen is not a remedy for fatigue, which requires adequate sleep and rest, as the mechanisms for fatigue and hypoxia are distinct.
Oxygen can, however, enhance mental acuity and cognitive function by alleviating often-unrecognized hypoxia, which is more prevalent than many pilots realize, especially at altitude or due to physiological factors.
Flying into Asheville (KAVL) in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) presents specific challenges, including difficult radar coverage, mountain obstructions, persistent fog, limited alternates, and higher frequency of icing and thunderstorms.
Some RNAV approaches that include RF (Radius to Fix) legs do not require special authorization, contrary to some previous understandings.

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Oxygen If You’re Tired?

I enjoyed Victor Vogel’s “Managing Fatigue” in your April issue. I have asked many people and read many articles. No one has ever said, “Why yes, supplemental oxygen will help keep you wide awake.” This has included AME’s, IFR instructors, et. al.

Is there an FAA rule against saying that? Or Am I so different from the rest of the population? Is there fear that not enough pilots carry oxygen, so the plan is not to inform any of them? Is there concern that not all pilots may react so well? I have relied on it so many times and I do indeed regain full feeling of being sharp almost instantly when sucking on the hose. It has not diminished in multi-hour flights.