Sudden loss of judgement in aviation, often occurring under high stress, can have critical consequences. This phenomenon, known as "pilot error", is a common factor in air crash investigations. It's important to note that while the term "error" may imply fault, this is not always the case. Pilots operate in complex, high-stakes environments where quick decision-making is crucial. Errors can occur due to a variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions, mechanical failure, or miscommunication.
On January 26, 2020, a Sikorsky S-76B helicopter carrying retired professional basketball player Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others crashed in the city of Calabasas, California, killing all on board. The subsequent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that the pilot, Ara Zobayan, became disoriented while navigating through heavy fog, a phenomenon known as "spatial disorientation". This tragic event underscores the critical importance of situational awareness and the perils of sudden loss of judgement in aviation.