Ozone Survey of C-9A.
Abstract
The United States Air Force (USAF) uses the C-9A aircraft, which is the McDonnell Douglas DC-9, for aeromedical evacuation of patients. Based on results from previous USAF Occupational and Environmental Health Laboratory (USAF OEHL) ozone surveys of the C-141B and C-5A cargo aircraft, Headquarters Military Airlift Command requested an ozone evaluation of the C-9A. Two Columbia Scientific Industries CSI-2000 ozone meters, chemiluminescent devices that are specific for ozone, were used to measure the cabin ozone. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has published a standard restricting the cabin ozone levels to no more than 0.250 ppm (sea-level corrected) ceiling concentration and to a 0.1 ppm (sea-level corrected) time-weighted average (TWA) for flight segments greater than three hours. Of concern, are the ozone levels present in the C-9A interior and whether these levels will affect patients with illness or injury that can be synergistic with ozone exposure (i.e., respiratory dysfunctions). In closing, forecasts based on TOMS maps and the synoptic meteorological features could be implemented to provide a pre-flight notification to the flight crew of a potential ozone exposure to themselves and the passengers. The ozone forecast under development can provide information on which flight levels that high ambient ozone levels will be encountered. The pilot can decide whether to fly below the ozone or around any isolated pockets. As for aeromedical evacuation, the flight crew can refer any significant ozone forecast to the medical crew for a decision on deferring the aeromedical evacuation of a patient or use of supplemental breathing oxygen.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA130632
Entities
People
- Gerald D. Swoboda
- Peter A. Lurker