To become a Bundesheer pilot: How G-forces affect the human body
Under the motto "Physical and mental health to become a pilot", an operational pilot from the Österreichisches Bundesheer gave an insight into the mechanics of the human body under extreme flight conditions on 23 January 2025 as part of the "Mechanics, Solids and Fluids" lecture in the Bachelor's degree programme in Medical Science.
Students and employees were inspired by the lecture and subsequently discussed the physics, medicine and psychology behind the training and profession of a pilot.
Among other things, the Eurofighter pilot spoke about the physical and mental requirements for becoming a pilot and gave an insight into pilot training. For example, pilots can experience up to 9 G-forces during flight manoeuvres, i.e. 9 times their body weight. Training is therefore essential to withstand such stresses.
In addition, the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the brain at high acceleration and it is forced into the extremities instead. The result: a lack of oxygen in the brain, which can lead to G-LOC (loss of consciousness). Special suits help pilots to counteract this phenomenon and ensure optimum performance.
Many thanks to our guest for the fascinating insights into the connection between biomechanics and the reality of flying!
