What can cause the sensation of being in a climb or descent according to Elevator Illusion?

The sensation of being in a climb or descent, known as Elevator Illusion, is primarily caused by sudden vertical accelerations. When an aircraft experiences rapid changes in vertical speed—such as when it abruptly climbs or descends—the inner ear, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation, can misinterpret these movements. This misinterpretation results in a false perception of altitude change, leading to a strong sensation of climbing or descending even if the aircraft's actual trajectory is stable.

Sudden vertical accelerations affect the otolith organs in the inner ear, which detect changes in motion. Their response to rapid changes can lead to confusion about the aircraft's actual position, causing pilots to feel as if they are in a climb or descent. This phenomenon highlights the importance of relying on instrument readings during flight, especially during times of disorientation caused by such illusions.

Other options, while they can certainly impact a pilot's perception and experience, either do not directly relate to the function of the inner ear in the same way or result in lesser degrees of disorientation compared to the effects of sudden vertical accelerations.