Airliners Avoid Tibet's High Plateau

Most long-distance commercial flights avoid crossing the Tibetan Plateau, where the terrain averages about 14,370 feet and includes parts of the Himalayas. After cabin depressurization, pilots normally descend toward 10,000 feet, where passengers can breathe safely without supplemental oxygen. Much of the plateau rises above that altitude, preventing the usual emergency descent while maintaining safe terrain clearance. Engine failures, severe mountain turbulence, and extreme winter temperatures create additional reasons for airlines to route flights around the region.

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