The best aviation oxygen systems provide pure oxygen for pilots and passengers. Even though commercial and military planes use oxygen the most, business planes also have it.
The type of aircraft determines how these oxygen systems work. In some cases, the systems are part of ordinary aviation operations.
Sometimes oxygen systems provide supplemental oxygen for specific purposes. Another reason for oxygen use is in an emergency, such as pressure loss or fire.
Before selecting an aviation oxygen system, it is important to understand the different types:
Table of Contents
Types of aviation oxygen systems
- Continuous flow systems – These systems work best when portable or when flying under 25,000 ft.
- Diluter demand systems – These systems are for flights between 25,000 and 40,000 ft high
- Pressure demand systems – These systems work for altitudes over 40,000 ft.
My picks for the best aviation oxygen systems include the following:
- 1. the most versatile, flexible aviation oxygen system on the market, Mountain High O2D2 Pulse Demand
- 2. the best portable aviation oxygen system, SkyOx Aviation Oxygen System
- 3. the top pilot tested an approved oxygen system, Precise Flight X3 Demand Conserver
- 4. the best system for two-person emergency use, Aerox PrO2-6-2
- 5. the top system for those watching their budget, Delta Air-King 870 Aviation Oxygen
1. Mountain High O2D2 Pulse Demand
The Mountain High O2D2 Pulse Demand is the best flexible option I’ve found for up to 25,000 ft. One of the system’s best benefits is the design that reduces oxygen loss.
This system is straightforward to use, which is always helpful. A built-in barometer makes keeping track of the pressure easier.
I enjoyed being able to choose between aluminium and composite for the canister construction because pilots have different preferences. Cannulas and face masks come with the unit, making everything easier.
2. SkyOx Aviation Oxygen System
The SkyOx Aviation Oxygen System has five-cylinder sizes that make it flexible. I also appreciated being able to choose two or four users.
This system can arrive filled for greater convenience. There are also helpful add-ons, including seat back and cannula carrying cases, pulse oximeters, and headset cannulas.
3. Precise Flight X3 Demand Conserver
The Precise Flight X3 Demand Conserver has the benefit of pilot testing and approval. However, the best advantage of this system is its status as a conserved.
I like this system’s conserver status, which supplies oxygen on-demand. Providing oxygen on demand helps extend the supply’s duration by as much as 300%.
All the connectors come with the conserver, so there are no compatibility issues. A mic mask comes with the conserver to allow for more accessible communication.
This system works up to 25,000 ft. One of the most helpful things for me was the carrying case that made it easy to keep everything together.
4. Aerox PrO2-6-2
The Aerox PrO2-6-2 is the best option I’ve found for vitally-important emergency oxygen. Two masks make it easier to accommodate and pilot and co-pilot, as necessary.
This system has been designed with cabin pressure at 25,000 ft in mind. The oxygen flow will last for 30 minutes, which gives the most time to reach a safer altitude.
I appreciated how easy the system is to activate, involving pulling a ring. This system is refillable after use, ensuring greater peace of mind for users.
5. Delta Air-King 870 Aviation Oxygen
The Delta Air-King 870 Aviation Oxygen is budget-friendly and easy to use. I would recommend this system for those features alone, but other components are also worth mentioning.
There are one and two-place options available. I think this flexibility is essential for diverse private pilot needs.
The valve has a convenient toggle for turning the system on and off. I think the 12-position flow regulator contributes to this system’s overall user-friendliness.
FAQs
What are the three types of aviation oxygen systems?
The three most common oxygen systems used in aviation are:
Continuous flow for portable systems or altitudes under 25,000 ft
Diluter demand designed for flights from 25,000-40,000 ft
Pressure demand ideal for altitudes over 40,000 ft
What kinds of oxygen systems are used on a plane?
Oxygen systems on planes flying over 10,000 ft are fixed or portable. The fixed systems rely on a pressurized cylinder, and portable systems rely on tanks, regulators, and masks.
How are aviation and medical oxygen different?
Aviation and medical oxygen are technically the same. How the oxygen is stored and delivered is what makes the difference.
What kind of oxygen do pilots use?
Pilots are most likely to use diluter demand oxygen supplied as needed. The amount of oxygen delivered will depend on the altitude. Masks with these systems have tight seals to prevent contamination from the outside air.