When is emergency oxygen automatically activated in the T-6?

The correct answer is that emergency oxygen is automatically activated during ejection in the T-6 aircraft. This system is crucial for pilot safety, as ejection typically occurs in emergency situations where the aircraft may be experiencing rapid descent or potentially incapacitating conditions.

When the pilot ejects, the forces involved and the altitude at which ejection typically occurs can lead to a significant drop in cabin pressure or the potential for altitude-induced hypoxia. Therefore, the emergency oxygen system activates automatically to ensure that the pilot receives supplemental oxygen immediately after ejection, which is vital for maintaining consciousness and function during the descent.

Other options, while related to the operation of the aircraft, do not pertain to the automatic activation of emergency oxygen. For instance, preflight checks are performed to ensure systems are functional but do not involve emergency scenarios. Similarly, landing is a routine operation where the oxygen system is typically not required, and a cabin pressure drop, while critical, does not trigger the emergency oxygen specifically tied to the ejection seat system.