The inversion illusion is a vestibular illusion in which an abrupt change from a climb to level flight stimulates the otolith organs of the inner ear strongly enough to create a false sensation of tumbling backward. A pilot experiencing this illusion may respond by abruptly pushing the aircraft into a nose-low attitude, a correction that can intensify the very sensation of tumbling that prompted it. This description is adapted from Wikipedia contributors under CC BY-SA 4.0; changes were made. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
Facts
Classification
Type of Phenomenon Sources
1. Wikipedia: Sensory Illusions in Aviation
Vestibular/somatogravic, Inversion sectionQuote, Vestibular/somatogravic, Inversion section
An abrupt change from climb to straight-and-level flight can stimulate the otolith organs enough to create the illusion of tumbling backwards, or inversion illusion.
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