ground lighting illusions

ground lighting illusions

Lights along a straight path, such as a road, and even lights on moving trains can be mistaken for runway and approach lights. Bright runway and approach lighting systems, especially where few lights illuminate the surrounding terrain, can create the illusion of less distance to the runway. The pilot who does not recognize this illusion will fly a higher approach. Conversely, the pilot flying over terrain that has few lights to provide height cues may make a lower than normal approach. See runway width illusion.
ground loop A sharp, uncontrolled turn while moving on the ground, especially after landing or on takeoff. Tail wheel aircraft with propeller engines are more susceptible to ground loop.