Aeromedical Factors

Figure 17-7. Runway illusions. 17-11 52 Normal Approach 52 25 25 Normal Approach 52 Normal Approach 52 Runway width illusion Narrower runway Wider runway • A narrower-than-usual runway can create an illusion that the aircraft is higher than it actually is, leading to a lower approach. Normal Approach • A cr e w a i t d e e a r- n t h il a lu n s -u io s n u a th l r a u t n th w e a a y i c rc a r n a f t is lower than it actually is, leading to a higher approach. Narrower runway Wider runway Runway slope illusion Downsloping runway Upsloping runway • A downsloping runway can create the illusion that the aircraft is lower than it actually is, leading to a higher approach. • An upsloping runway can create the illusion that the aircraft is higher than it actually is, leading to a lower approach. Downsloping runway Upsloping runway Normal approach Approach due to illusion diagrams and the Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly 4. Use Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI) or Airport/Facility Directory) for information on runway Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) systems slope, terrain, and lighting. for a visual reference, or an electronic glideslope, whenever they are available. 2. Make frequent reference to the altimeter, especially during all approaches, day and night. 5. Utilize the visual descent point (VDP) found on many nonprecision instrument approach procedure charts. 3. If possible, conduct an aerial visual inspection of unfamiliar airports before landing.