Validation of the flight simulator´s oxygen masks’ condition during the annual inspections

During the investigation it was discovered that the oxygen masks used in ATR 72 flight simulator training are not in as good condition as those in aeroplanes. The training session might give the pilots the wrong impression and teach incorrect techniques in donning the mask.

Safety Investigation Authority, Finland recommend that the Finnish Transport Safety Agency ensure that the validation of the oxygen masks’ condition during the annual flight simulator inspections be carried out via subjective testing. The condition of oxygen masks used in flight simulators must be equivalent to that of oxygen masks in aircraft.

During the investigation it was discovered that the oxygen masks used in ATR 72 flight simulator training are not in as good condition as those in aeroplanes. The training session might give the pilots the wrong impression and teach incorrect techniques in donning the mask.