Coriolis illusion


The illusion of rotation or movement in an entirely different axis, caused by an abrupt head movement, while in a prolonged constant-rate turn that has ceased to stimulate the brain’s motion sensing system.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (definition from the FAA-H-8083-25B, 2016; current: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023, with the October 2025 addendum).

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Glossary last updated 2024-07-25.