startle factor
n.— «Practical research shows that experienced pilots, with training provided by their airlines in upset recoveries, still struggle to perform when attempting to recover. There are many human factors involved in an actual upset, including the “startle factor” a nd the sometimes overwhelming psychological aspects of an upset attitude. With appropriate instruction, pilots can learn how to recognize and recover from an upset.» —“Enhance Upset Training” by Bryan Burks Aviation Week Feb. 8, 2010. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
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