34.22 Spatial Orientation

34.22.2 Define spatial orientation.

Spatial orientation is the ability to determine the position and movement of the body in relation to the Earth.

It allows us to sense:

• which way is up or down,

• whether we are upright or tilted,

• whether we are moving forwards, backwards or sideways, and

• whether we are turning or accelerating.

Spatial orientation depends on information from the eyes, the inner ear, and sensory receptors in the muscles and joints.

The balance organs within the inner ear are known collectively as the vestibular system. They include the:

• semicircular canals, which detect rotational movement; and

• otolith organs, which detect linear acceleration and the position of the head relative to gravity.

The brain combines this information to determine our position and movement in space.

34.22.4 Define disorientation.

Disorientation is a state of confusion or loss of spatial orientation where the pilot incorrectly perceives the aircraft's:

• attitude;

• position;

• movement; or

• direction.

The flying environment has a high potential for conflicting orientation information reaching the brain.