Definition
A Runway Visual Range value of 1,800 feet, meaning the horizontal distance a pilot can see down the runway from the approach end is 1,800 feet, as measured by transmissometer equipment near the runway. This is a common minimum visibility value used on ILS approach charts, particularly for Category I ILS approaches to runways equipped with appropriate approach lighting.
Plain English
On the runway, you can see 1,800 feet ahead. That number comes from instruments beside the runway, not from a pilot looking out the window. It is often the lowest visibility allowed for many precision instrument approaches.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and in weather reports for low-visibility approaches, including ILS approaches.
Why Pilots Care
It is a common visibility minimum that decides whether an approach may continue to landing or requires a missed approach.
Grounding Statement
In low visibility, 1,800 RVR is a measured runway-seeing distance, not a general estimate of how far everything can be seen around the airport.
Intuition Check
Do not read 1,800 RVR as 1,800 miles or as a general airport visibility report. In this context, it means 1,800 feet of runway visual range.
Example Sentence 1
The ATIS reported 1,800 RVR on Runway 27, which met the published minimums for the ILS approach.
Example Sentence 2
With the reported RVR at 2,200 feet, the crew confirmed it exceeded the required 1,800 RVR and continued the approach.