The Association Between Bistable Perception Stability and Performance in Simulated Flight Operations

Bistable perception, where the brain alternates between two interpretations of ambiguous stimuli, has individual-specific switching rates. Although it is related to neural activities, no prior research has investigated its correlation with external behavioral performance. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the stability of bistable perception and behavioral performance, and the corresponding application prospects in the selection of special talents, such as pilots.

We chose to use simulated flight operations in this research. Two experiments were conducted on ab initio pilot cadets. In Experiment 1, 38 cadets completed a simulated flight and then observed a bistable point-light rotating sphere (with or without rhythmic information) and reported its rotation direction. Experiment 2 involved 54 cadets divided into two groups observing either rhythmic or nonrhythmic spheres, with pre- and postflight tests.

The perceptual switch rate of the rotating sphere was negatively correlated with simulated flight scores (rhythmic: r = -0.547; nonrhythmic: r = -0.484). After observing three sessions of 3-min trials of rhythmic stimuli, the perceptual switch rate increased, which led to an increase in the dominant frequency of flight altitude fluctuations (t = 2.440).

Bistable perception stability can predict the performance of external behaviors in simulated flight. The change of perception stability will change operational stability. This research provides support for the application of bistable rhythmic rotating spheres in assessing the perceptual stability of flight candidates in pilot selection, and for enhancing the perceptual stability of pilot cadets in flight training. Zhang X, Wei L, Li X, Luo Y, Yuan J, Tan Q, Mu H. The association between bistable perception stability and performance in simulated flight operations. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2026; 97(5):337-343.