Page 161 - PPL - engelsk - Air Law and Human Performance

Human Performance

An overpressure in the Eustachian tube, which can occur during ascent, escapes

more easily.

One method for equalizing pressure is the Valsalva maneuver, where you take
a deep breath, close your mouth, pinch your nose, and blow gently. This forces

air into the Eustachian tube. However, this method does not work for everyone.

Pay attention to your passengers during descent. Are they comfortable, or

should you adjust the descent angle?

If you suffer from hay fever, ear infections, sinus infections, polyps, or swollen

mucous membranes due to an infection, you may need to avoid flying, as these

conditions can impair pressure equalization.

2.5.4.3 The semicircular canals

In the inner ear is our balance system, which includes

three semicircular canals arranged at right angles to

each other.

Inside the canals are sensory hairs surrounded by

fluid (endolymph) with a viscosity similar to glycerin.

The canals detect head movements in any direction, as the fluid resists motion.

If the head continues to rotate, the fluid eventually matches the movement,

and the sensory hairs no longer send signals.

This means that only changes in motion are detected.

When you stop rotating, the fluid keeps moving, creating a sensation of

movement in the opposite direction. Most people have experienced this effect

after getting off a spinning ride, resulting in balance issues.

Flight Theory PPL(A)(UL)/LAPL Henning Andersen, Midtjysk Flyveskole© 2025 161