Eye movement patterns under exposure to spatial disorientation illusions during simulated flight

ObjectiveTo identify eye movement patterns which are correlated with spatial disorientation (SD) events during flights in a flight simulator that induces SD. BackgroundSpatial disorientation is one of the main causes of aviation mishaps. It results from illusions caused by misinterpreted vestibular or visual sensory cues, leading to an incorrect perception of an aircrafts position, attitude, or motion. SD prevention is crucial, as there is no objective tool to detect its occurrence. MethodEye movements of 45 participants (30 aircrew members, 15 cadets) were recorded using Tobii Pro Glasses 2 in a Gyro-IPT SD flight simulator. Illusions were either vestibular or visual. Gaze metrics--such as fixations, saccades (rapid gaze transfers), and visits--were compared between participants who experienced SD and those who did not. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify significant differences. ResultsAmong 284 flight profiles, 136 SD occurrences were recorded (48%). During visual illusions, participants who more frequently checked the instrument panel were more likely to avoid SD. In contrast, during vestibular illusions, participants who examined the head-up display (HUD) more frequently had a lower probability of experiencing SD. ConclusionEfficient SD mitigation requires task-specific eye-movement strategies: mitigating visual illusions requires increased focus on the instrument panel, while mitigating vestibular illusions involves greater engagement with the HUD, challenging current standard instructions. ApplicationThese findings may inform training programs aimed at improving performance in high-risk SD profiles. Additionally, the results support the development of real-time SD alert systems to help mitigate or prevent SD-related incidents. PrecisThis study examined eye-movement patterns during flight in a flight simulator to identify mechanisms underlying spatial disorientation (SD) and strategies for SD avoidance. Findings reveal that to avoid visual illusions greater instrument focus is required, whereas to avoid vestibular illusions, HUD engagement is beneficial. Results could be applied to training programs to enhance flight safety and reduce SD incidents.