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Aircraft maneuvers involving large accelerations (called “G-forces” because they feel like changes in gravity from the pilot’s perspective) can result in pilot unconsciousness, a condition commonly referred to as “G-force-­induced loss of consciousness” (G-LOC). Typically, total inca­pacitation from G-LOC lasts for several seconds, although it can last longer than 30 s. 13 G-LOC is thought to result from inadequate flow of resources like oxygen (i.e., hypoxia) at the consciousness-maintaining centers of the brain. 10 It occurs in untrained healthy

Air Force pilots must be able to overcome various physiological changes experienced when in the flight environment. These physiological changes include gravity-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC), hypoxia, cog­nitive dissonance, hearing loss, and flight illusion. 13 G-LOC occurs when acceleration forces produce a situation in which the cardiovascular system is unable to supply oxygenated blood to the regions of the nervous system that support consciousness. 19 According to research, approximately 8–20% of military aircrews have experienced G-LOC