Aerospace Physiology
Discuss basic atmospherology, aircraft platforms, and the basics of aviation physiology. Understand the effect of the flight environment upon human behavior and performance of both military and civil aircrew.
Learning Outcomes
- • Discuss basic atmospherology & aircraft platforms
- • Explain inflight stressors & thermal physiology
- • Analyse night flying & vision effects
- • Demonstrate knowledge of physiological effects
Target Population
- • Paramedics
- • Doctors
- • Nurses
- • Medical professionals aspiring to work in aviation
Entry Requirements
- • Medical background and knowledge required
- • Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) Accredited
- • Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) Approved
- • CPD Points Eligible
Exit Level Outcomes
- • Understand the effect of the flight environment upon human behavior and performance of both military and civil aircrew
- • Demonstrate knowledge on the physiological effects of the flight environment on healthy aircrew and aircraft passengers
Basic Atmospherology, Aircraft Platforms & Aviation Physiology
Day 1 • 8 Hours
Basic Understanding of Atmospherology: Identify layers of the atmosphere, explain physical properties of atmospheric layers, discuss how each layer affects human physiology, and explain International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard atmosphere.
Aircraft Platforms: Differentiate between pressurised and unpressurised cabins, and explain the effects of both on the human body.
Basic Aviation Physiology: Understand cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, hypoxia and hyperventilation, and prevention of hypoxia. Explain the effects of ascent into altitude on gas-containing organs, and otitic and pulmonary barotrauma (lungs, ears, sinuses).
Video Lecture 1.1: Introduction to Atmospherology & Aviation Physiology
Reading Material: Basic Atmospherology
PDF • 12 pages
Inflight Stressors & Human Physiology in the Thermal Environment
Day 2 • 8 Hours
Inflight Stressors: Analyse how the following affect aircrew performance, air passengers, and air lifted patients:
- Hypobaric Hypoxia
- Changes in pressure
- Temperature changes
- Noise and Vibration
- Short duration acceleration
- Dry air
Life Support Systems: Discuss how oxygen systems, pressure cabin and clothing, and restraint systems work to support aircrew life.
Human Physiology in the Thermal Environment: Explain the effects of working in extreme heat conditions, discuss mechanisms of protection from extreme heat, and understand thermal protection and survival in extreme weather.
Video 1.2: Inflight Stressors & Life Support Systems (Locked)
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Night Flying, Glare, Brownout & Vision
Days 3-5 • 24 Hours
Complete Unit 2 to unlock
Module Assessment
Assessment Requirements
Complete all units and achieve 80% or higher to pass and receive your Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) certificate. Assessment includes class theory test and practical test.
Downloadable Resources
Module 1 Handbook
Complete course notes and references
Lecture Slides
All PowerPoint presentations
Ready to test your knowledge?
Take the Module 1 assessment to check your understanding.