Postural Disequilibrium following Training Flights

The use of flight simulators for training military aircrew and commercial pilots has been increasing dramatically since World War II. However, the advantages of simulator training, such as cost-effectiveness and variety of missions which can be safely flown, may be offset by the occurrence of ataxia and other symptoms associated with simulator training. The present paper reports on postural disequilibrium following training in eight Navy flight simulators. Tests of standing steadiness were administered to 726 Naval and Marine Corps aviators prior to and then just following their regular flight training. Statistically significant ataxic effects were found following simulator exposure. The implications of these data for safety are discussed.