What is the function of anti-G suits in aviation?

The function of anti-G suits in aviation primarily revolves around preventing blood pooling in the extremities during high-G maneuvers. When pilots experience rapid changes in acceleration, particularly in high-performance aircraft, the forces acting on their bodies can cause blood to move away from the brain and pool in the legs. This pooling can lead to a loss of consciousness, a condition known as G-induced Loss Of Consciousness (GLOC).

Anti-G suits are designed to apply pressure to the lower body (particularly the abdomen and legs), which helps to maintain blood circulation towards the brain during these high-G conditions. By mechanically constraining the vessels in the legs, the suits assist in keeping blood flowing efficiently towards the vital organs, thereby helping pilots maintain alertness and control of their aircraft during extreme maneuvers.

Other options, such as increasing blood pressure, enhancing speed, or improving comfort, don’t accurately capture the primary purpose of anti-G suits, which is specifically about maintaining blood flow to prevent physiological issues related to G-forces.