Sage-Tips

What are causes of spatial disorientation when flying?

Spatial disorientation in aircraft can arise from flight situations or visual misinterpretation. Banks and turns often create false sensations. When turning gradually, a pilot may feel as though he were on a straight course but ascending; when a turn is corrected, the impression is that of descending.

How does spatial disorientation affect a pilot?

Spatial disorientation can also affect instrument-rated pilots in certain conditions. A powerful tumbling sensation (vertigo) can result if the pilot moves his or her head too much during instrument flight. This is called the Coriolis illusion.

How do you overcome spatial disorientation?

Here are a few tips for avoiding spatial disorientation during night flight:

1. Give your eyes time to adjust. The rods in our eyes need about 30 minutes to completely adjust to darkness.
2. Avoid flying in inclement weather.
3. Beware of bright lighting.
4. Watch out for false horizons.
5. Trust your instruments.

What preparation should a pilot make to adapt the eyes for night flying?

Adapt the eyes to darkness prior to flight and keep them adapted. About 30 minutes is needed to adjust the eyes to maximum efficiency after exposure to a bright light. If oxygen is available, use it during night flying.

What preparation should a pilot make to adapt?

What preparation should a pilot make to adapt the eyes for night flying? Wear sunglasses after sunset until ready for flight. Avoid bright white lights at least 30 minutes before the flight. Avoid red lights at least 30 minutes before the flight.

How do you induce spatial disorientation?

Diving or Rolling Beyond the Vertical Plane:

1. This maneuver may produce extreme disorientation.
2. While in straight-and-level flight, the pilot should sit normally, either with eyes closed or gaze lowered to the floor.
3. The instructor pilot starts a positive, coordinated roll toward a 30° or 40° angle of bank.

Which of the following is a correct response to counteract the feelings of hypoxia in flight?

Which of the following is a correct response to counteract the feelings of hypoxia in flight? Slowing down the breathing rate, breathing into a bag, or talking aloud.