What does the G-Excess Effect cause during an aircraft turn?

The G-Excess Effect describes how increased G-forces experienced during a turn can distort a pilot's perception of the aircraft's orientation and performance. During a turn, especially in tight maneuvers, pilots experience an increase in G-forces that can lead them to perceive the bank angle as being less than it actually is. This occurs because the body is subjected to increased forces that can create a sense of heaviness, making it difficult to accurately gauge the steepness of the turn.

As a result, while the aircraft may be banked at a certain angle, the pilot may feel as though the aircraft is not banked as much as it truly is due to these overwhelming forces acting on their body. This misperception can lead to improper control responses and potentially unsafe flight conditions if not correctly recognized.

Understanding the G-Excess Effect is critical for pilots, as it emphasizes the importance of instrument cross-check and situational awareness over relying solely on physiological sensations during flight.