Every time you board a plane, there is a risk of something going wrong. Pilots and crew members are responsible for ensuring your safety while in the air, but even with their best efforts, things can go wrong.
One of the risks faced by passengers is spatial disorientation. This phenomenon can cause pilots to lose track of their orientation and direction, leading to accidents. So, how common is spatial disorientation in aviation accidents?
What is spatial disorientation?
Spatial disorientation is a condition that can occur when pilots lose their sense of orientation in relation to the ground and other objects. It can be caused by various factors, including faulty equipment, bad weather, and human error.
While spatial disorientation is the cause in only 5-10% of all aviation accidents, 90% of those accidents are fatal, which makes this condition a cause for concern. However, there are ways to prevent it:
- Pilots should always use their instruments when flying, even if they feel confident they know their location.
- They should follow proper procedures for flying in reduced visibility conditions.
- They should be aware of the symptoms of spatial disorientation, so they can take corrective action if they start to experience them.
Although aviation accidents due to spatial disorientation are rare, they can be deadly. Pilots must be aware of the dangers of losing their bearings, especially when flying at night or in bad weather.
If you have lost a loved one in an aviation accident due to a pilot error, it’s important to consider your legal options and get justice for your loved one.