Definition
An operation in which a pilot uses an Enhanced Flight Vision System — a certified onboard system that displays a real-time sensor image of the external scene (typically infrared) on a head-up display — to continue an instrument approach below the published minimum descent altitude or decision altitude when the required natural-vision references are not yet visible. The pilot must see the required visual references using the EFVS imagery, and the operation must be conducted under the rules and limitations specified in 14 CFR 91.176.
Plain English
Flying an instrument approach using a special cockpit system that shows the pilot a clear sensor image of the runway environment, allowing the approach to continue lower than would otherwise be allowed when the pilot can't yet see the runway with the naked eye.
Context Anchor
Seen in low-visibility instrument approach and landing rules, especially when discussing what a pilot may see through an approved vision display instead of relying only on the windshield view.
Derivation
Built from 'enhanced' (improved beyond normal) plus 'flight vision system.' The 'enhanced' part is the key idea: the system gives the pilot vision better than the unaided eye in poor conditions, usually by using infrared sensors that can see through haze, darkness, or light fog.
Why Pilots Care
It lets pilots complete landings at airports that would otherwise be inaccessible due to weather, reducing diversions while maintaining safety margins.
Intuition Check
Do not read “operation” here as simply “the EFVS is working.” An EFVS operation means the pilot is using the approved system as part of a specific approach, landing, or rollout procedure.
Example Sentence 1
The captain briefed the EFVS operation, confirming that the head-up display and infrared sensor were functioning before commencing the approach.
Example Sentence 2
During the EFVS operation the pilot acquired the runway lights on the head-up display at the decision height.