Optical illusions primarily affect pilots during which phase of flight?

Optical illusions primarily affect pilots during the landing phase due to the unique visual challenges presented at that time. When approaching for landing, pilots are particularly sensitive to changes in their perception of distance, height, and speed. Factors such as the angle of the runway, terrain features, and lighting conditions can create misleading visual cues that may cause the pilot to misjudge their approach.

For instance, the feeling of being higher or lower than the actual altitude can lead pilots to make incorrect adjustments during their descent. One common example is the "runway width illusion," where a narrow runway may create a perception of being higher than the actual altitude, potentially leading to a too-steep approach, while a wider runway may make them feel lower than they are, resulting in a flatter approach. Therefore, the critical need for accurate visual perception during landing combined with the potential for misleading visuals makes this phase of flight the most susceptible to the effects of optical illusions. Understanding this aspect is vital for maintaining safety during the landing process.