What is the primary focus of the Effects of Flight course?

The primary focus of the Effects of Flight course is on understanding the medical effects of high G forces and altitude operations on the human body. This training is crucial for pilots and aircrew members as they are often exposed to extreme conditions that can impact their performance and physical well-being. Knowledge of the physiological reactions, such as G-induced Loss Of Consciousness (GLOC) or hypoxia, helps aircrew effectively manage and respond to these challenges while in flight.

Understanding these effects is vital for maintaining safety and optimizing operational effectiveness during missions. The emphasis on medical knowledge equips pilots with the ability to recognize symptoms and make informed decisions to preserve both their health and that of their crew. This focus is distinct from other areas such as basic flying techniques, which primarily cover how to operate an aircraft, or aerodynamics, which examines the principles of flight mechanics. While these subjects are important, they do not address the specific medical concerns faced by aircrew in high-stress environments like the Effects of Flight course does.