Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) Practice Exam

Which environmental factor can lead to pilot confusion while flying over water?

1. Reflective surfaces

2. Varied landing sites

3. Multiple compass references

4. Cumulus cloud formations

The correct answer is: Reflective surfaces

Reflective surfaces are a significant environmental factor that can lead to pilot confusion when flying over water. The water's surface can create strong reflections, particularly on sunny days. These reflections can distort visual cues and make it difficult for a pilot to discern the aircraft's altitude, identity of the horizon, or navigate effectively. This phenomenon is often referred to as "whiteout" or "glare," which is especially tricky when trying to maintain orientation in the empty expanse of water that lacks distinct landmarks. While varied landing sites can present their own challenges, they typically do not induce the same level of confusion as reflective surfaces. Multiple compass references can also create confusion, although in the context of flying over water, the reflections pose a more direct and immediate challenge. Lastly, cumulus cloud formations, while they can affect visibility and flight conditions, do not create the same optical illusion as the reflective water surface that can mislead a pilot's spatial awareness.