Aviation Dictionary

Inversion illusion

The feeling that the aircraft is tumbling backwards, caused by an abrupt change from climb to straight- and-level flight while in situations lacking visual reference.

Dictionary Term

Inversion illusion

Definition

The feeling that the aircraft is tumbling backwards, caused by an abrupt change from climb to straight- and-level flight while in situations lacking visual reference.

References

Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Federal Aviation Administration, 2023