Enhanced Vision System Option on Future Aircraft

An Enhanced Vision System (EVS) displays sensor derived information to the pilot, usually on a Head Up Display (HUD). The use of at least one on-board sensor would allow the pilot to visualize the runway environment when conventional flight visibility would not permit this. The components of the system are integrated in a way that takes into account the specific task to be accomplished and the associated human factors.

The technology for EVS appears to be available. There is a potential for EVS to provide added situational awareness for flight crews. One challenge is to determine whether EVS can be economically justified. However, its potential for improving situational awareness may outweigh any economic disadvantage. Airport capacity during fog conditions could be improved. Additionally, the pilot's ability to avoid runway incursions under night/low visibility conditions could be substantially improved.

The discussion includes: 1) the EVS option on future production aircraft, and 2) development of a Synthetic Vision System (SVS) for the High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT). These two projects are overlapping efforts at this time due to their similar nature.