Somatogravic Illusions
The otolith organs respond to acceleration situations while flying. A rapid tilting of your head backward will stimulate the otolith organ.
A rapid takeoff acceleration stimulates the otolith organ and creates the "nose up" somatogravic illusion. In situations with limited visual references, the disoriented pilot may push the airplane into a "nose-down" or "dive" attitude.
In takeoff mode you may inadvertently crash into the runway before you recognize the illusion. If you know your plane and expect the illusion, especially with a high performance plane, it may prevent such an accident.
A rapid deceleration by the quick reduction of the throttle(s) can have the opposite effect. The disoriented pilot may pull the plane into a nose-up or stall attitude.
A more pronounced deceleration may occur when reverse thrusters are powered up, after landing a commercial jet, with moderate braking applied simultaneously. If you are a passenger you may feel this illusion from the safety of your seat.
Another situation that causes deceleration is lowering the landing gear or deploying flaps.
The otolith organs respond to acceleration situations while flying. A rapid tilting of your head backward will stimulate the otolith organ.
A rapid takeoff acceleration stimulates the otolith organ and creates the "nose up" somatogravic illusion. In situations with limited visual references, the disoriented pilot may push the airplane into a "nose-down" or "dive" attitude.
In takeoff mode you may inadvertently crash into the runway before you recognize the illusion. If you know your plane and expect the illusion, especially with a high performance plane, it may prevent such an accident.
A rapid deceleration by the quick reduction of the throttle(s) can have the opposite effect. The disoriented pilot may pull the plane into a nose-up or stall attitude.
Another situation that causes deceleration is lowering the landing gear or deploying flaps.
