What visual illusion can occur when flying over a narrow runway?

What visual illusion can occur when flying over a narrow runway?

• A. It appears lower than it actually is
• B. It appears higher than it actually is
• C. It disappears from view
• D. It appears distorted

Answer: (B)

When flying over a narrow runway, the visual illusion that it appears higher than it actually is can be attributed to the way the brain interprets visual cues in the environment. This phenomenon occurs due to the limited width of the runway in the pilot's field of view, which can lead to a misperception of its elevation. As pilots approach a runway that looks narrow, their brains may unconsciously perceive it as being farther away or elevated, particularly when contrasted with surrounding terrain or objects that are perceived as being at a lower altitude. This illusion can create a sense of increased height, which may affect landing decisions, altitude awareness, and overall situational awareness during the approach phase. Understanding this visual illusion is crucial for safe flying, as it can lead to misjudgments in descent rate or approach path, potentially resulting in a higher-than-intended landing approach. Recognizing that this perception is not an accurate representation of reality helps pilots maintain better control and make more informed decisions during landing.

When flying over a narrow runway, the visual illusion that it appears higher than it actually is can be attributed to the way the brain interprets visual cues in the environment. This phenomenon occurs due to the limited width of the runway in the pilot's field of view, which can lead to a misperception of its elevation.

As pilots approach a runway that looks narrow, their brains may unconsciously perceive it as being farther away or elevated, particularly when contrasted with surrounding terrain or objects that are perceived as being at a lower altitude. This illusion can create a sense of increased height, which may affect landing decisions, altitude awareness, and overall situational awareness during the approach phase.

Understanding this visual illusion is crucial for safe flying, as it can lead to misjudgments in descent rate or approach path, potentially resulting in a higher-than-intended landing approach. Recognizing that this perception is not an accurate representation of reality helps pilots maintain better control and make more informed decisions during landing.