Which of the following is a sign of cabin depressurization?

Which of the following is a sign of cabin depressurization?

• A. Increased oxygen levels in cabin
• B. Passengers applauding
• C. Quiet cabin atmosphere
• D. Pain in ears and sinuses

Answer: (D)

A rapid drop in cabin pressure causes a quick change in the ambient pressure the body experiences. The ears and sinuses must equalize that pressure, which often results in pain or discomfort in those areas. This pressure-related pain is a classic sign of depressurization. In contrast, oxygen levels in the cabin would not increase during depressurization; they typically fall and oxygen masks may deploy. A quiet cabin or passengers applauding aren’t indicators of an in-flight depressurization.

A rapid drop in cabin pressure causes a quick change in the ambient pressure the body experiences. The ears and sinuses must equalize that pressure, which often results in pain or discomfort in those areas. This pressure-related pain is a classic sign of depressurization. In contrast, oxygen levels in the cabin would not increase during depressurization; they typically fall and oxygen masks may deploy. A quiet cabin or passengers applauding aren’t indicators of an in-flight depressurization.