Good kit

A product that has just come to market recently that highlights the need to test O2 levels in the blood periodically on all flights above 10,000ft is the new Garmin D2 Delta PX.

‘As pilots we can easily become hypoxic.’

“The Pulse Ox sensor on D2 Delta PX uses light beams at your wrist to determine the percentage of haemoglobin in your bloodstream and show your body’s oxygen saturation level,” Garmin explains on its website. “This O2 saturation level is dependent upon a number of factors, including your overall health condition, breathing rate and activity level. Checking with Pulse Ox can help you gain awareness of how well your body’s oxygen levels are adjusting to the thinner air at higher altitudes.” Garmin also warns that the D2 Delta PX is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical conditions.

A short search on the web unearths several pulse oximeter products dedicated to O2 level monitoring, as the requirement for pulse Ox products in the medical industry is quite large. The most prevalent pulse oximeters are small, clip-like devices that attach to a finger, and prices range from around US$20 to US$200.

Then there is the AERO 455 panelmounted pulse oximeter and carbon monoxide (CO) detector, which is a TSO-certified unit designed especially for use in aircraft. A compact unit that can be mounted in an easilyaccessible position on the panel, the AERO 455 allows the pilot and crew to measure blood oxygen levels, cabin temperature and cabin altitude, and provide highly accurate CO detection. That information is then presented on an external display such as a PDF or MFD via a serial connection.

The AERO 455 then is an optimal solution for owners and pilots of highperformance, unpressurised certified aircraft looking for a tool to help in the avoidance of hypoxia at altitude along with protection from the dangers of carbon monoxide. The AERO 455 sells for US$999 plus installation.