black hole approach

Traffic Pattern Sep 16, 2026

The Black Hole Approach, the Night Runway Over Dark Terrain, and the Illusion That Has Been Pulling Pilots Short of the Threshold for Decades

The black hole approach is a deadly visual illusion that makes pilots believe they're on glidepath while flying dangerously low over dark, featureless terrain at night.

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Traffic Pattern Jun 17, 2026

The black hole approach at night and the optical illusion that flies you into the ground short of the runway

The black hole illusion makes a clear night approach feel easy while flying you low into terrain. Here's how to recognize and beat it.

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