Why do planes feel like they are going slow?

Why Planes Feel Like They Are Going Slow

When soaring through the vast expanse of the sky, passengers often experience an illusion of slow motion. This phenomenon, while counterintuitive given the aircraft’s immense speed, is attributed to several factors:

Lack of Visual Reference:

Unlike driving on the ground, where buildings, trees, and other landmarks provide a clear frame of reference, the boundless sky offers little visual contrast. Without nearby objects to gauge speed against, the plane’s steady progress appears sluggish.

Distance Deception:

The sheer size of the sky creates a sense of distance that can be deceptive. As the plane traverses the immense canvas, its movement across the horizon appears gradual, obscuring its actual velocity.

Absence of Landmarks:

In the absence of landmarks, our brains struggle to estimate the plane’s speed accurately. Without reference points to calibrate our perception, the aircraft’s motion seems less pronounced.

Subtle Acceleration:

Modern aircraft accelerate smoothly and gradually, eliminating the sudden bursts of speed associated with takeoff and landing. This gradual acceleration further contributes to the illusion of slow flight.

Sensory Deprivation:

Inside the passenger cabin, passengers are isolated from external sensations such as wind resistance and engine noise. Without these physical cues, it becomes difficult to gauge the plane’s true speed.

Psychological Factors:

Psychological factors can also play a role in this illusion. The serene and tranquil environment of the flight can create a sense of relaxation and contentment, making passengers less sensitive to the sensation of speed.

It is important to note that this illusion of slow motion is purely perceptual and does not affect the aircraft’s actual velocity. Planes travel at incredibly high speeds, covering vast distances in a matter of hours. However, the unique environment of air travel can lead to a disconnect between our perception and the plane’s objective speed.