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Enhancing pilot health: The role of Humidifier Onboard Air Freighters

In the demanding world of aviation, pilot health and comfort are paramount to ensuring flight safety and operational efficiency. At CTT Systems, our Humidifier Onboard Air Freighters system addresses a critical yet often overlooked issue: low humidity in aircraft cockpits and crew rest areas. This innovative technology is transforming the flying experience for pilots, particularly in the rapidly expanding air cargo industry.
Article about Enhancing pilot health The role of Humidifier Onboard Air Freighters
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The hidden risks of low humidity at cruising altitudes

Pilots face extremely low Relative Humidity (RH) levels at typical cruising altitudes, often drier than Earth’s harshest deserts. Without intervention, these levels can drop as low as 3% RH, potentially compromising pilot alertness and decision-making abilities. 

Effects of low humidity on pilot health

Low aircraft humidity can lead to various health issues:

  • Dryness in eyes, nose, throat, and skin
  • A weakened immune system
  • Increased fatigue
  • Diminished taste and smell


Research by Candice C. Y. Wen at the University of Melbourne found that nearly 82% of pilots and cabin crew have operated flights while fatigued, highlighting the urgent need for improved cabin conditions.

The Humidifier Onboard solution

Our Humidifier Onboard system uses potable water to achieve optimal humidity levels, increasing RH to a more comfortable 17% in the flight deck and 22% in the crew rest compartment. This significant improvement creates a healthier flying environment and supports pilot well-being in several ways: 

 

Strengthening pilot immunity

By maintaining optimal humidity, the system supports pilots’ immune defenses, reducing their vulnerability to illnesses during flights and upon arrival. 

Protecting vision and enhancing comfort

Higher humidity levels alleviate issues like dry eyes and skin, helping pilots maintain focus and alertness throughout long flights.  

Superior air quality and VOC reduction

In collaboration with Swedish air filtration specialists Camfil, we’ve integrated an advanced active carbon filter into the Humidifier Onboard system. This technology reduces harmful substances like acetone and benzene, enhancing onboard air quality. 

Proven benefits across top aircraft models

The Humidifier Onboard technology has demonstrated its operational and health benefits across various aircraft models:

·       Standard equipment on over 90% of Boeing 787s

·       Available as an option on Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X models

Extending wellness benefits to air freighters

With the booming global air cargo industry, we’re extending the Humidifier Onboard to widebody freighters like the Airbus A350F. This move recognizes that cargo pilots deserve the same health benefits and safety enhancements as their passenger-flying counterparts. 

Conclusion: Safer skies, healthier pilots

The Humidifier Onboard Air Freighters represents a significant leap forward in aviation health standards. As more airlines recognize the importance of cabin humidity for pilot well-being and flight safety, we anticipate wider adoption of this technology across the industry. 

Investing in pilot health can collectively ensure safer skies and a more sustainable future for aviation. 

Humidifier Onboard Crew Air Freighters 
– for safer skies and healthier air freighter pilots  


What to read next

➔ How dry cabin air affects your fatigue and sleep 
➔ How low cabin humidity impacts taste, smell, and health 
âž” The importance of humidity for human health

➔ Our product Humidifier Onboard Flight Deck 
➔ Contact us for more information about optimizing humidity in your aircraft

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New appointment: Eric Beverage as Director of Sales Americas at CTT Systems

Mr. Eric Beverage
Director of Sales Americas

+1 262-378-7830 
eric.beverage@ctt.se
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Mr Peter Landquist
VP Senior Advisor Sales

+46 (0) 70 665 24 45
peter.landquist@ctt.se
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