Loss of cabin pressure in Canadian Forces transport aircraft, 1963-1984

Abstract

A review of all transport aircraft accidents and incidents in the Canadian Forces over the last 22 years (1963-1984) has been carried out. There have been 47 cases of serious loss of cabin pressurization. Altitudes varied from 2133 to 11277 m (7000 to 37,000 ft). The CC 130 Hercules appears to be the most vulnerable (62%). The most common cause was mechanical in origin (70%). There were two definite cases of hypoxia, and oxygen masks were deliberately deployed in nine cases. No deaths or permanent injuries occurred. Loss of pressurization is an extremely low, but definite risk to the pilot and passengers, thus aeromedical training with practical demonstrations in the hypobaric chamber for aircrew and flight attendants should continue.