In a smoke event, what is the purpose of passenger oxygen masks?

• A. Provide passengers with breathable oxygen if cabin depressurization occurs or smoke reduces air quality
• B. Filter smoke from cabin air
• C. Provide air for passengers to breathe underwater
• D. Provide fans to circulate air

Answer: (A)

In a smoke event the priority is to keep passengers breathing air that is safe and breathable even if the cabin air quality is poor or the cabin has depressurized. The passenger oxygen masks tap into the aircraft’s onboard oxygen system and deliver breathable oxygen to each person, allowing continued consciousness and the ability to follow crew instructions as the aircraft descends to a safer altitude. These masks are not filters and do not remove smoke from the air; they simply supply oxygen. They also aren’t for underwater use or for moving air around the cabin—their sole purpose is to provide a reliable supply of breathable oxygen when the air inside the cabin is compromised.