When activating the RAM AIR switch, what condition must be met for the ram air inlet to open?

For the ram air inlet to open when activating the RAM AIR switch, the condition requiring the DITCHING switch to be in its normal position is crucial. In normal operation, the DITCHING switch, when positioned correctly, allows for the necessary airflow and operational conditions to prevent water from entering the aircraft in scenarios where ditching is a concern.

When the DITCHING switch is activated (specifically to the “Ditching” position), it closes the ram air inlet to ensure that water does not enter the aircraft, which would compromise safety. Hence, for the ram air inlet to open properly, the DITCHING switch must be set to its normal position, thereby indicating that the aircraft is not in a ditching scenario and is safe for normal ram air functionality.

Other options pertain to systems that may not directly impact the operational status of the ram air inlet. For example, the HOT AIR switch deals with cabin heating, the APU BLEED switch manages auxiliary power, and the X BLEED switch controls bleed air between engine systems. While these systems are important for overall aircraft functionality, they do not directly influence the opening of the ram air inlet in the same way that the DITCHING switch position does.