Definition
An onboard imaging system that uses sensors — typically infrared cameras — to produce a real-time image of the external scene that is clearer than what the pilot can see with the unaided eye, especially at night or in reduced visibility. The image is displayed on a cockpit screen or head-up display and may be used, under specific regulatory conditions, to descend below certain instrument approach minimums.
Plain English
A camera-and-sensor system that lets the pilot see outside the aircraft more clearly than the naked eye can — useful at night, in haze, or in poor weather.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument procedure, low-visibility approach, and advanced cockpit display discussions.
Derivation
‘Enhanced’ comes from Old French enhauncier, meaning to raise or improve. Here it signals that the pilot’s natural vision is being improved by sensors — not replaced by a synthetic image.
Why Pilots Care
Allows continuation of an approach to a lower decision height when the pilot can acquire the required visual references through the enhanced image rather than natural vision alone.
Intuition Check
Enhanced Vision does not mean the pilot’s eyesight is better or that the windshield is clearer. It means aircraft sensors are helping create a live displayed view of the outside scene.
Example Sentence 1
The crew used Enhanced Vision to identify the approach lights through the haze and continued the approach to landing.
Example Sentence 2
With EV active, the crew identified the runway environment at 150 feet above touchdown.