Which organ system is primarily affected by changes in atmospheric pressure during flight?

The respiratory system is primarily affected by changes in atmospheric pressure during flight due to the differences in pressure at various altitudes. As an aircraft ascends, the atmospheric pressure decreases. This decrease can lead to a reduction in the amount of oxygen available for respiration, potentially causing hypoxia, particularly at higher altitudes where supplemental oxygen may be required for pilots and passengers.

The respiratory system is responsible for gas exchange, and its efficiency can be significantly impacted by lower pressures, which affect how oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is expelled. Consequently, individuals may experience shortness of breath, increased respiratory rates, or other respiratory distress effects as a result of these atmospheric changes.

While other organ systems, such as the circulatory and nervous systems, may also encounter some challenges during flights (like changes in blood flow or pressure regulation), they typically do not experience the immediate and direct impact that the respiratory system does with respect to altitude and atmospheric pressure during flight. The digestive system tends to be less affected in this context, as it does not have a direct dependence on atmospheric pressure changes. Thus, the respiratory system is the most relevant to changes in atmospheric pressure experienced during flight.