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Aeromedical factorsQuestion 735 of 934

What is the effect of flying over featureless terrain, such as a dark area or snow, on an approach?

  1. The pilot may think the airplane is higher and fly a lower approach
  2. The pilot may think the airplane is lower and fly a higher approach
  3. The pilot may think the runway is shorter
  4. The pilot may see the runway lights too early
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Correct answer: The pilot may think the airplane is higher and fly a lower approach

Featureless terrain creates the illusion of greater height. This is sometimes called the black hole approach.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 17: Aeromedical Factors — Optical Illusions, page 432

Practice aeromedical factors

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026