Design, Implementation, and Testing of Spatial Disorientation Scenarios in a Modified Hexapod Motion Simulator

Investigations into aviation accidents aim to identify root causes and enhance safety. Despite advancements in safety measures, technology, and education, general aviation accident rates remain stable, with loss of control identified as the leading cause. Spatial disorientation is a significant contributing factor in these incidents, accounting for approximately 10% of general aviation accidents—90% of which are fatal. Addressing spatial disorientation is increasingly critical with the emergence of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles, a sector projected to reach a $30 billion market by 2030. While AAM is expected to transition toward full autonomy, human pilots will operate these vehicles during the early adoption phases, increasing their exposure to spatial disorientation. This research aims to enhance spatial disorientation training through the MOTUS 600 Flight Simulator, incorporating necessary upgrades such as X-Plane virtual simulation software. Various training scenarios have been developed to expose pilots to spatial disorientation effects, including the pitch-up illusion, also known as the somatogravic illusion, graveyard spiral illusion, runway width illusion, and a general motion decoupling illusion. These scenarios integrate task-loading elements such as navigation and air traffic control interactions to simulate real-world challenges. This study details the simulator upgrades and the intended effects of these training methods in mitigating spatial disorientation and improving pilot safety. Keywords: spatial disorientation, Advanced Air Mobility, flight simulator, X-Plane simulation, illusion scenarios.