The high-performance military pilot

changes imposed during the flight

Abstract

This article aims to present and discuss physical fitness, physiological and psychological changes caused by high-performance pilots. High-performance flight provides a series of physiological reactions to pilots, such as changes in the cardiovascular, respiratory, and mechanical systems, given the high accelerations and G-force imposed in their training or operations activities. Physical training can contribute to better adaptation to the physiological changes of high-performance flight, providing greater endurance, strength, and control of pilots’ actions during their activities. Psychological and physical aspects are also affected in pilots, due to the need for quick and assertive responses in moments of pressure and stress, be it physical or mental. Then, high-performance flight causes physical and psychological stress to the pilot, with the G force in the Z axis and high acceleration being the main responsible for physiological and mental variations in these professionals.