During the Cabin Alt Msg or Emergency Descent Procedure, what is the first action to be taken?

During the Cabin Alt Msg or Emergency Descent Procedure, what is the first action to be taken?

• A. Oxygen Masks / Smoke Goggles - DON, Set TO 100%
• B. Crew Communication - ESTABLISH
• C. Both A and B
• D. Evacuate

Answer: (A)

The first action is to don oxygen masks and set the system to 100% oxygen. In a Cabin Alt Msg or Emergency Descent, a rapid depressurization or smoke condition can quickly reduce the crew’s ability to think and fly safely. Getting full, uninterrupted oxygen to the crew immediately preserves consciousness and cognitive function, allowing you to control the aircraft and start the descent without delay. Once oxygen is secured, you can establish crew communications to coordinate actions and inform others, but attempting to communicate before oxygen is secured can compromise safety if you start to hypoxify. Evacuating isn’t the initial step; you descend to a safe altitude and handle stabilization and evacuation decisions after the aircraft is under control and conditions permit.

The first action is to don oxygen masks and set the system to 100% oxygen. In a Cabin Alt Msg or Emergency Descent, a rapid depressurization or smoke condition can quickly reduce the crew’s ability to think and fly safely. Getting full, uninterrupted oxygen to the crew immediately preserves consciousness and cognitive function, allowing you to control the aircraft and start the descent without delay.

Once oxygen is secured, you can establish crew communications to coordinate actions and inform others, but attempting to communicate before oxygen is secured can compromise safety if you start to hypoxify. Evacuating isn’t the initial step; you descend to a safe altitude and handle stabilization and evacuation decisions after the aircraft is under control and conditions permit.