Definition of the term “Graveyard Spiral”
Graveyard spiral is a phenomenon that can occur to a pilot during a prolonged, coordinated, constant rate turn when the pilot experiences an illusion of the cessation of the turn. This illusion can lead to disorientation and a loss of control of the aircraft.
The term “graveyard spiral” gets its name from the fact that a pilot experiencing this phenomenon may not realize they are in a descending spiral until it is too late, resulting in a crash that can be fatal. The sensation of the cessation of the turn is due to the pilot’s inner ear, which helps maintain balance and orientation, sending misleading signals to the brain. If corrective measures are not taken promptly, the pilot can lose control, leading to a catastrophic outcome.
Graveyard spirals are particularly dangerous because pilots are often unaware that they are experiencing disorientation, and they may not trust their instruments, leading them to make incorrect inputs that exacerbate the problem. Vigilance and proper training can help prevent this occurrence, but it remains a significant risk factor for pilots, making it essential to recognize the dangers and take measures to prevent them.
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