Emergency Descent

[flipflyr]

The last part of our comapany's emergency descent checklist is "10,000' MSL or MEA, whichever is higher"...

FWIW

 

[avbug]

If you're in the clear and have visual contact with obstacles, then go as low as you need to go. Otherwise, stop at the minimum IFR altitude, if it's above your target altitude. My target is to get down to 14,000 ASAP, and then lower when able. There is no rush to get down below ten grand, and if terrain or obstacles preclude doing this safely, don't. Once you get down to breathable levels again, you have time to sort out what you'll do next.

 

[bigsky]

Under part 91 paxs do not even have to be supplied O2 until 15000. Very unlikely that someone will die instantaneoulsy if you level off at 16000. However if you hit a mountain....
I would say this is pretty much common sense and requires a little situational awareness. It is important to keep the charts out and be aware what is below you. In S. America you could really have some issues as many of the mountains are well over 20,000 feet.