What should be the immediate action when explosive decompression occurs?

In the event of explosive decompression, the primary concern is the immediate safety and survival of all individuals on board the aircraft. Engaging oxygen masks is crucial because the rapid loss of cabin pressure can lead to a significant decrease in available oxygen, which can impair cognitive functions and lead to hypoxia, a condition arising from insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues.

Using the oxygen masks enables you and your passengers to breathe adequately, allowing you to maintain consciousness and perform necessary actions to stabilize the aircraft. This is especially critical because explosive decompression can occur suddenly, leaving little time to react.

While there are other important responses following such an event—like notifying air traffic control, descending to a safer altitude, or engaging autopilot—securing an adequate oxygen supply via the masks is the immediate priority. The descent typically comes after the oxygen masks have been donned, allowing for a controlled reaction to regain cabin pressurization.