During cabin depressurization on the A320, what is the recommended sequence of actions?

• A. Initiate rapid descent, don oxygen masks for crew, don passenger masks as needed, follow depressurization checklist and coordinate with cabin crew.
• B. Descend slowly while maintaining current altitude, then deploy oxygen masks only if a problem is confirmed.
• C. Continue at cruise altitude and rely on automatic oxygen delivery without crew masks.
• D. Initiate a gradual descent and inform ATC without using oxygen masks.

Answer: (B)

In a cabin depressurization, the priority is to get breathable air to everyone while restoring a safe cabin altitude. The recommended approach is to bring the airplane down to a breathable altitude as soon as possible, and have crew oxygen available and ready, coordinating with cabin crew and ATC as needed. The option identified as correct aligns with this idea by emphasizing initiating descent to a safer altitude and ensuring oxygen becomes available to the crew, with coordination to manage the situation.

Think of it this way: you want to reduce the time you and your crew spend in an unsafe cabin environment, so you begin a controlled descent to a lower altitude where the air is breathable, while keeping the lines open with the cabin team and ATC. Oxygen deployment can then proceed as required by the evolving situation. Other choices tend to imply delaying descent or oxygen use, or relying on automatic systems without actively providing crew masks, which can increase risk in a depressurization.