During a Graveyard Spiral, stopping the turn typically causes which perceptual change?

During a Graveyard Spiral, stopping the turn typically causes which perceptual change?

• A. Stopping the turn gives the impression you are spinning/turning the other way.
• B. Returning to the original flight path relieves the sensation.
• C. Turns cause descents.
• D. You may pull up and tighten the spiral.

Answer: (A)

When you stop turning in a graveyard spiral, your vestibular system still senses rotation for a moment, so you perceive that you are spinning or turning in the opposite direction. The inner ear’s semicircular canals respond to angular motion, and once actual rotation ceases, the sensation can linger and be interpreted as opposite rotation, especially when visual cues are scarce. This illusion is why pilots in instrument conditions must rely on their flight instruments to reestablish level flight or a coordinated, shallow turn rather than trusting the sensation.

When you stop turning in a graveyard spiral, your vestibular system still senses rotation for a moment, so you perceive that you are spinning or turning in the opposite direction. The inner ear’s semicircular canals respond to angular motion, and once actual rotation ceases, the sensation can linger and be interpreted as opposite rotation, especially when visual cues are scarce. This illusion is why pilots in instrument conditions must rely on their flight instruments to reestablish level flight or a coordinated, shallow turn rather than trusting the sensation.