What does the Coriolis Illusion cause a crewmember to feel?

The Coriolis Illusion occurs when a pilot or crewmember is subjected to rapid head movements during a turn, climb, or decent while in flight. This phenomenon can create a sensation of tumbling or spinning because of the way the inner ear transforms those movements into a perceived motion. When the head moves rapidly in one direction, the fluid in the semicircular canals, which are part of the vestibular system in the inner ear, continues to move in the opposite direction for a brief period. This can lead to a disconnect between what the sensory system perceives and the actual orientation of the body, resulting in the sensation of tumbling.

This sensation can be disorienting and may affect a crewmember's spatial awareness, potentially complicating their ability to navigate or control the aircraft effectively. Understanding the Coriolis Illusion is crucial for pilots because it emphasizes the importance of maintaining situational awareness and being mindful of head movements during flight.