What should be done when experiencing the sensation of tumbling in flight?

Trusting your instruments is essential when a pilot experiences the sensation of tumbling in flight. This sensation can often be a result of spatial disorientation, which occurs when the pilot’s perception of direction is flawed due to various factors, including the lack of visual reference points and the body's sensations not aligning with the aircraft's actual motion.

In these situations, the instruments provide the most accurate information about the aircraft's orientation and motion, allowing the pilot to regain situational awareness. Relying on visual references can be misleading, especially in low visibility or during maneuvers that disorient the pilot. Adjusting altitude without understanding the current situation risk exacerbates the problem; maintaining altitude and level flight is often more critical during disorientation. Although relaxing and breathing can help reduce panic and maintain focus, it does not rectify the immediate issue of disorientation. Thus, trusting the instruments is crucial for safely navigating out of the sensation of tumbling.