
4.4 The Impact of Human Error on Aviation Safety One of the most significant hazards to flight in low-light conditions is spatial disorientation and visual illusions. These issues can complicate nighttime flying and flying in low-visibility weather, particularly for inexperienced pilots. Spatial disorientation refers to the inability to accurately perceive the aircraft's position, attitude, or movement in space (Federal Aviation Administration, 2016, p. 17-6). Pilots rely on various sensory cues to navigate effectively. The visual system is crucial as pilots use their eyes to gauge the aircraft's orientation by focusing on the horizon's position. The somatosensory system provides essential feedback through the skin, muscles, nerves, and joints, allowing pilots to feel the effects of gravity. Additionally, the vestibular system, located in the inner ear, wor...