PBE is the abbreviation for which equipment?

• A. Portable Breathing Equipment
• B. Protective Breathing Equipment
• C. Pressure Breathing Equipment
• D. Pilot in Command

Answer: (B)

Protective Breathing Equipment is the correct term. PBE refers to gear that protects aircrew from smoke, fumes, and irritants by delivering breathable air during fires or smoke events. It typically includes a hood and a canister that provides a supplied air flow, allowing the wearer to breathe safely while evacuating or addressing the situation. This is different from a role like Pilot in Command, which is a person, or from terms like Portable or Pressure Breathing Equipment, which aren’t the standard aviation names for this setup.