Visual Runway Illusions

Definition

Optical illusions affecting approach judgment including narrow runways appearing farther away, wide runways appearing closer, upslope runways appearing too high, and downslope runways appearing too low.

Related Terms

Visual Approach

An IFR approach where the pilot proceeds visually to the runway with ATC authori...

Black Hole Approach

A dangerous visual illusion during night approaches over water or unlit terrain ...

Precision Approach Path Indicator(PAPI)

A visual aid of four light units beside the runway showing the aircraft position...

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