10.44 Information Processing

10.44.2 Identify the human sensors pilots depend on for information acquisition. 

Pilots rely on a variety of human sensors for information acquisition, including:

1. Vision

Pilots rely heavily on their visual sense to gather information about their surroundings, including:

• the position and movement of other aircraft;
• terrain; and
• weather conditions.

2. Hearing

Pilots also use their auditory sense to gather information, such as:

• engine sounds;
• radio communications; and
• warning signals.

3. Touch

Pilots use their sense of touch to feel the aircraft's movements and vibrations.

This can provide information about the aircraft's performance and stability.

4. Proprioceptors — 'seat of your pants'

Proprioceptors provide information about body position and movement.

These sensations provide information about:

• muscle tension;
• the position and tension of joints; and
• equilibrium.

These receptors are located in muscles, tendons, joints and the internal ear.