Spatial Disorientation Event During Flight Due to Proposed Reverse-Dip Visual Illusion

The dip illusion occurs when a pilot flying in trail attempts to maintain the image of the lead aircraft in a fixed position on the windscreen as separation increases, which can lead to unintentional descent. In this case, we propose a "reverse-dip" illusion. The fighter crew was unaware they were closing in on the tanker, causing the Target Designator box to rise in the Head-Up Display. The pilot instinctively pulled back on the stick to maintain the box's position, resulting in an unintentional climb. Recognizing how such illusions develop in flight is essential to reducing future risks. Nakdimon I, Gordon B. Spatial disorientation event during flight due to proposed reverse-dip visual illusion. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(11):1015-1018.