Which type of spatial disorientation occurs when the disorientation is recognized?

Recognized spatial disorientation, also known as Type II, occurs when an individual is aware of their disorientation, which allows them to take corrective actions or rely on other methods to regain situational awareness. This awareness can stem from their understanding of the symptoms of disorientation and their ability to recognize that their perception may not accurately reflect reality, such as when they feel the aircraft is in a certain attitude, but their instruments indicate otherwise.

This type of disorientation is critical because pilots can often address the issue effectively once they recognize that their spatial perception may be distorted. By relying on their instruments, communicating with others, or using various recovery techniques, they can navigate out of the disorientation.

In contrast, other types of spatial disorientation do not involve this level of awareness. Incapacitating disorientation refers to situations where intervention may be necessary and the pilot lacks the ability to recover or respond adequately. Unrecognized disorientation occurs when individuals have no awareness of their situation, potentially leading to grave consequences without corrective actions. Critical disorientation indicates a more severe state of awareness imbalance, and when pilots are not aware of the disorientation and cannot correct for it, it becomes extremely dangerous.