It is generally considered that motion sickness comes about due to the normal human response to unfamiliar motion. The brain receives conflicting information from ears, eyes and external forces acting on the body. A state of anxiety or hyperventilation raises the sensitivity of the vestibular system making motion sickness more likely, alcohol also affects the vestibular system and can linger for days.

The initial symptoms are an uneasy feeling in the stomach closely followed by the face going pale and the onset of sweating. The mouth generates saliva, the body starts to get hot, a feeling of light headedness, depression or apathy sets in and usually the victim vomits. For some individuals vomiting relieves the unpleasant feelings while in others it makes it worse.

Motion sickness is not uncommon in aviation, particularly amongst new students or first time passengers as fear or apprehension can aggravate the situation. There is no need to worry or rush out and buy medication as motion sickness normally disappears after a few flights. Pilots and passengers of open cockpit aircraft like flex wing microlights are generally less prone to motion sickness as there is a constant flow of fresh cool air. It is worthy to note that over the counter motion sickness medication is a sedative and should therefore be avoided by pilots and students.

If you have a passenger who is showing signs of motion sickness, make sure they are getting fresh air, chat to them and keep them interested. Encourage them to look around particularly at the horizon as this helps to minimize the mental conflict. Avoid abrupt maneuvers and areas or altitudes of turbulence. Take away their apprehension by always telling them what you are going to do before you do it. Do your best to make them relaxed, comfortable and land as soon as possible.