Definition
An installed aircraft system that uses imaging sensors -- typically infrared, low-light, or millimeter-wave -- to display a real-time, sensor-derived image of the external scene on a head-up display or equivalent pilot-viewable display, allowing the pilot to see runway environment features in low-visibility conditions that would not be visible with the unaided eye. EFVS is approved under specific FAA regulations to allow operations to continue below the published approach minimums when defined visual references are seen on the EFVS image.
Plain English
A camera-and-display system that lets the pilot see through fog, haze, or darkness by showing a live infrared or sensor image of what's outside, projected in front of the pilot. It is approved for use on instrument approaches so the pilot can fly lower in poor visibility than they could with their eyes alone.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach and low-visibility operation discussions, especially when the pilot is using an approved display to identify runway lights, markings, or other required visual references.
Derivation
"Enhanced" means improved or added to. "Flight Vision" means the pilot's view of the outside world during flight. So an Enhanced Flight Vision System is equipment that improves the pilot's view -- specifically by adding sensor imagery to what the eye alone can see.
Why Pilots Care
It allows descent and landing in weather minima lower than those permitted with natural vision alone, increasing airport access and operational flexibility.
Grounding Statement
Picture looking forward from the cockpit in poor visibility while a certified sensor image helps reveal the runway area on a cockpit display.
Intuition Check
Enhanced does not mean the pilot can ignore visibility rules. It means the aircraft has an approved system that improves the pilot’s ability to see the outside scene electronically, within specific operating limits.
Example Sentence 1
On the ILS into a fog-bound airport, the crew used the EFVS to identify the approach lights and runway edges, allowing them to continue the descent below standard minimums.
Example Sentence 2
With Enhanced Flight Vision Systems approved, the flight was able to land when the reported visibility was below the standard published minimum.