What characterizes the Coriolis Illusion for pilots?

What characterizes the Coriolis Illusion for pilots?

• A. Feeling of rapid ascent after level turn
• B. Feeling of spinning during straight flight
• C. Feeling of being pushed towards the outside of the turn
• D. Feeling of movement opposite the direction of a turn

Answer: (D)

The Coriolis illusion occurs when a pilot experiences a sensation of movement opposite to the direction of a turn. This phenomenon arises due to the interaction between the pilot's movements and the aircraft's motion. When a pilot is in a turn and suddenly looks away or becomes disoriented, their inner ear (which helps with balance) can falsely interpret the body's motion, causing them to feel as if they are moving in the opposite direction of the turn. This effect is primarily linked to the vestibular system in the inner ear, which is sensitive to angular rotations. In executing a turn, if the aircraft's motion is not closely monitored or if there is a sudden change in head position, the pilot might misinterpret the stimuli leading to the Coriolis illusion. Understanding this illusion is crucial for pilots to maintain spatial awareness and prevent misjudgment of aircraft orientation, particularly during maneuvers where they might experience disorientation.

The Coriolis illusion occurs when a pilot experiences a sensation of movement opposite to the direction of a turn. This phenomenon arises due to the interaction between the pilot's movements and the aircraft's motion. When a pilot is in a turn and suddenly looks away or becomes disoriented, their inner ear (which helps with balance) can falsely interpret the body's motion, causing them to feel as if they are moving in the opposite direction of the turn.

This effect is primarily linked to the vestibular system in the inner ear, which is sensitive to angular rotations. In executing a turn, if the aircraft's motion is not closely monitored or if there is a sudden change in head position, the pilot might misinterpret the stimuli leading to the Coriolis illusion. Understanding this illusion is crucial for pilots to maintain spatial awareness and prevent misjudgment of aircraft orientation, particularly during maneuvers where they might experience disorientation.