At what cabin altitude should oxygen masks be deployed?

Oxygen masks should be deployed at a cabin altitude of 14,000 feet. This is a critical safety measure in aviation, as cabin altitude refers to the altitude inside the aircraft cabin, which can differ from the aircraft's actual altitude due to pressurization systems. When the cabin altitude rises to 14,000 feet, the partial pressure of oxygen decreases substantially, potentially leading to hypoxia, a condition where the body does not receive enough oxygen. At this level, it is essential to provide supplemental oxygen to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Deploying the oxygen masks at this altitude allows passengers and crew to breathe more effectively, reducing the risk of oxygen deprivation during an emergency scenario, such as rapid decompression. The regulations and safety protocols are designed to protect individuals in the cabin, particularly in unexpected situations where the aircraft may not be able to maintain safe air pressure.