What might an abrupt change from a climb to straight and level flight cause in a pilot?

An abrupt change from a climb to straight and level flight can create a sensation that mimics the feeling of tumbling backward. This is largely due to the effects of inertia and the body's vestibular system, which helps maintain balance and orientation.

During a climb, the body is subjected to a certain level of G-force, which creates a feeling of increased weight as the aircraft climbs. When the aircraft suddenly transitions to straight and level flight, the reduction in G-force might lead the pilot to feel as though they are being thrown backward. This reaction is heightened if the pilot does not anticipate the change and is not mentally prepared for the sudden alteration of forces acting on the body.

The sensation can also be compounded by factors such as the pilot's physical conditioning, experience level, and the speed of the maneuver, which can enhance feelings of disorientation or even exacerbate the feeling as if they're tumbling. This illustrates the importance of understanding human factors and physiological responses in aviation, as these can significantly affect performance and decision-making in flight.