Aeromedical considerations for flight operations from high-elevation airfields.

Abstract

High-elevation airfields are available to commercial and military aviation. Rapid ascent to locations at high elevations may result in symptoms of altitude sickness in aircrew, support personnel, and passengers. In the United States there are 302 airfields at altitudes in excess of 1,524 m (5,000 ft); in other areas of the world, field elevations can exceed 4,267 m. The symptom complex which may occur at altitude is reviewed and recommendations are offered to prevent, ameliorate, or manage the symptoms.