The Trained Eye: Elevating Pilot Performance Through Vision Fitness

Episode 14 This episode features both the science and practice of improving one of the most vital—yet often overlooked—tools in a pilot’s toolkit: vision. But this conversation goes far beyond just our eyesight. You’ll learn how the visual system connects to the brain and impacts everything from sleep cycles and mood to stress management and even pain perception. We’ll explore how eye health plays a direct role for in-flight performance, and the science behind how we see, process, and respond to visual information in the cockpit. The episode features four evidence-based eye practices that improve depth perception, peripheral vision, and visual acuity—whether you're scanning for traffic, preparing for landing, or just trying to reduce eye strain on a long flight. You’ll also hear how training your visual system can sharpen cognitive function and reduce visual biases, ultimately helping you fly with greater confidence and clarity. Links: How eye tracking gives insight into musical minds Fascinating video shows eye tracking technology in action. Integrating Vision Training into Music: Part 1. Lots of extra exercises that we can adapt for pilots! 8 Easy Eye Exercises to Improve Vision: Techniques and Tips Exercises from the Kraff Eye Institute; these focus on visual health and include some pretty helpful diagrams. The Science of Vision, Eye Health & Seeing Better Huberman Lab podcast: goes into great depth on this topic from both a neuroscience and practical perspective.