What is spatial disorientation defined as?

Spatial disorientation is defined as the inability to interpret aircraft attitude accurately. This condition occurs when a pilot's perceptions of position, motion, and altitude are distorted, often due to a lack of visual references, particularly in challenging weather conditions or during night flight.

When pilots rely solely on their inner ear or senses for spatial awareness, they may misinterpret the aircraft's orientation, leading to dangerous situations such as incorrect bank angles or altitude perceptions. This phenomenon is significant in aviation because it can compromise a pilot's ability to maintain control of the aircraft, especially in situations where external visual cues are limited or absent. Understanding spatial disorientation is crucial for pilot training and safety, emphasizing the importance of reliance on instruments and proper training to recognize and correct for these illusions.