Pressure situation
Question: We are all familiar with the popping ears associated with takeoff
and landing in an aeroplane. This is caused by changes in pressure, but because
the aircraft cabin is artificially pressurised, why isn’t the internal pressure
maintained at one level throughout the journey?
Answer: For reasons of fuel economy, large civil transport aircraft have to
fly at altitudes far in excess of those capable of sustaining life. Whereas 5500
metres is about the maximum altitude at which a person can live for any extended
period, a subsonic passenger jet has the best fuel economy when flying at…
