Definition
A flight deck display system that merges Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) imagery -- typically infrared or millimeter-wave sensor video of the actual outside scene -- with Synthetic Vision System (SVS) imagery -- a computer-generated 3D depiction of terrain, obstacles, and runways drawn from a database and GPS position. The combined picture is presented on the primary flight display so the pilot sees both the real-time sensor view and the synthetic terrain view together.
Plain English
A display that puts two kinds of outside-the-aircraft views on top of each other: a live camera-style image of what's really out there, and a computer-drawn picture of the terrain and runway built from a database. The pilot sees them as one blended view.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument procedure and advanced avionics discussions, especially when describing approach displays used in low visibility or at night.
Why Pilots Care
It extends safe visual references into conditions where natural vision is unavailable, reducing the risk of controlled flight into terrain or loss of situational awareness.
Grounding Statement
On approach in haze or darkness, the display can show a blended forward view that helps the pilot picture where the aircraft is in relation to the runway and surrounding terrain.
Intuition Check
Do not read “vision” here as normal eyesight through the windshield. In this term, “vision” means an avionics display that combines sensor information with a computer-drawn outside view.
Example Sentence 1
On the night approach into mountainous terrain, the combined vision system showed the runway lights through the haze while the synthetic terrain confirmed the ridge line off the left wing.
Example Sentence 2
During the approach briefing the pilot noted that the combined vision system would provide an overlay of the runway environment on the display.