Gulfstream II (G1159)
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 25; Flight Crew Total 15400; Flight Crew Type 950
Communication Breakdown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation - Altitude Excursion From Assigned Altitude; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
During descent the airplane experienced a rapid decompression. I was given an altitude restriction of FL270 at FL273. The aircraft oxygen masks deployed. I made the decision to continue descent and have the pilot not flying contact ATC of our need to continue down to lower level. ATC frequency was congested and we descended below FL270 prior to contacting ATC. We made contact with ATC as we descended through FL266. I explained we had a pressurization issue and needed lower immediately. ATC cleared me to FL260; prior to reaching they cleared us to 17;000 ft. approximately at FL190 we started to gain control of our pressure problem and leveled off at 17;000 feet. We continued to destination. No further issues. Center advised me to contact them upon landing. I landed and gave all requested information to center.
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
GII crew experienced a rapid decompression and difficulty obtaining a clearance for lower altitude from ATC.