How can nasal or sinus congestion affect flight safety?

• A. Improves performance.
• B. Increases risk of barotrauma and pain during altitude changes.
• C. Has no effect.
• D. Only matters on takeoff.

Answer: (B)

When an aircraft ascends or descends, cabin pressure changes and airspaces inside the head, especially the middle ear and paranasal sinuses, must equalize with that pressure. Nasal or sinus congestion swells the mucosa and can block the Eustachian tube and sinus openings, preventing this pressure equalization. As a result, air becomes trapped and pressure builds against the eardrum and sinus walls, causing sharp pain and risking barotrauma. This can also affect hearing, balance, and overall situational awareness, which directly impacts flight safety. So congestion increases the risk of barotrauma and pain during altitude changes.