What is the primary reason pilots might not feel the effects of a gradual bank turn?

The primary reason pilots might not feel the effects of a gradual bank turn is due to the lack of vestibular sensation. The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a crucial role in helping individuals perceive their orientation and movement in space. In a gradual bank turn, the change in orientation is often so subtle that it may not activate the vestibular receptors sufficiently to give a clear sensation of the turn.

Pilots rely on visual cues and instruments for orientation rather than relying solely on the sensations they feel in their bodies. In such situations, they can become accustomed to the lack of strong feedback from their vestibular system during a steady bank and may not perceive the turn as distinctly as they would during more pronounced maneuvers or sudden changes in flight path. This phenomenon illustrates the importance of understanding human factors in aviation, particularly how the body processes sensory information and how this can impact situational awareness during flight.