[fredjacksonsan]

Originally Posted by Nicole8188

According to wikipedia, the average altitude in a pressurized cabin is about 8,000 ft.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabin_pressurization

Also, according to Harmony Airways, cabin pressurization can almost double the effect of alcohol.

http://www.harmonyairways.com/travel...althtips.shtml

I've read the same book....

Correct Nicole.

The pressurization system pumps air into the cabin, and there is a relief valve, or controlled leak, on the opposite end that regulates the pressure. Since there are virtually no medical effects up to 8000 feet, that's what the airlines run as "cabin pressure" at higher altitudes. They don't run a higher pressure (and thus a lower altitude) as it's safer and cheaper not to do so.


Since there is less O2 in the air, it basically increases the ratio of alcohol in your bloodstream, so at altitude drinks are more effective. But the buzz goes away when you come back down. 3:1 might be a little high, but hey it's all good.