What is recommended for managing vertigo during flight?

Focusing on the aircraft instruments to regain situational awareness is recommended for managing vertigo during flight because it helps the pilot maintain control of the aircraft and avoid disorientation. When a pilot experiences vertigo, their body may perceive movement or tilt that does not actually exist, leading to a loss of situational awareness. By turning their attention to the instruments, the pilot can rely on reliable data, such as altitude, speed, and attitude, to counteract the misleading sensations from their inner ear.

Using instruments provides a concrete reference that can help ground the pilot in reality, allowing for clearer decision-making despite the disorienting physical sensations. This technique is critical, especially in situations where visual references are limited, such as flying in clouds or during nighttime operations.

While other strategies such as deep breathing, changing altitude, or relying on a co-pilot may offer some comfort or support, they do not directly address the cognitive and situational disorientation that comes with vertigo. Therefore, focusing on instruments is the most effective and recommended strategy to maintain control during such an episode.