What sensory illusion might occur during a missed approach due to acceleration?

During a missed approach, the phenomenon of acceleration can lead pilots to experience a sensory illusion where they feel as though they are climbing. This is primarily due to the body's vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.

When an aircraft accelerates, especially in a climb, the increased load factor can create a sensation of upward movement, even if the aircraft is simply maintaining level flight or if the flight path has changed. The sensation of climbing is often amplified under conditions of reduced visual reference, such as in poor weather or when transitioning from visual to instrument flight, which is common during missed approaches. As the aircraft accelerates, the pilot's perception may not align with the actual conditions of flight, leading to this climbing illusion.

Understanding this illusion is crucial for pilots, as it can affect their decision-making and response during critical phases of flight, such as a missed approach where precise control and situational awareness are essential. Recognizing these sensory inputs and relying on instrument readings can help mitigate the effects of such illusions.