What defines the differential pressure range in an aircraft?

The differential pressure range in an aircraft is defined as the operating range beyond the isobaric range. In this context, the isobaric range refers to conditions where the cabin pressure and outside pressure are steady and equal, resulting in no significant pressure differential. As an aircraft climbs, the outside atmospheric pressure decreases. To maintain comfort and safety for the passengers and crew, the cabin pressure must be controlled, often requiring it to be higher than the outside pressure.

In this scenario, the differential pressure range is critical because it is the range in which the aircraft's cabin pressure system operates effectively to ensure a safe and comfortable environment. This range is particularly important during altitude changes, where maintaining adequate pressurization becomes essential as the air outside the aircraft thins.

The other options do not accurately define the differential pressure range:

• Rapid increases in cabin pressure can occur during different phases of flight but do not specifically identify the range itself.

• When cabin pressure equals outside pressure is a state rather than a range; it indicates equalization rather than the differential.

• The maximum altitude for pressurization relates to the limits of the pressurization system but does not define the differential pressure range per se.