Definition
A live, continuously updated sensor-based view of the scene ahead of the aircraft, displayed by an Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) with negligible delay between what the sensor detects and what the pilot sees. The imagery typically comes from infrared or other imaging sensors and is shown on a head-up display or equivalent, allowing the pilot to use it as a primary visual reference for the approach, landing, and rollout in low-visibility conditions.
Plain English
It is the live picture from the EFVS sensors, shown to the pilot as it happens, so what they see on the display matches what is actually outside the aircraft at that moment.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach and combined vision system discussions, especially when EFVS information is shown on a cockpit display during low-visibility approach and landing operations.
Derivation
Real-time means the imagery is shown as events happen, with no meaningful delay. EFVS stands for Enhanced Flight Vision System. Together the phrase emphasizes that the sensor view is live, not recorded, stored, or noticeably lagged.
Why Pilots Care
It allows continued descent below published minimums when the pilot can see the required visual references on the EFVS display.
Grounding Statement
Picture the aircraft’s display showing a live outside scene from sensors while the pilot is flying an approach in mist or darkness.
Intuition Check
Do not read “real-time” as “perfect” or “complete.” Here it means the EFVS image is being shown live, with no meaningful delay; it does not mean the system can show everything or replace pilot judgment.
Example Sentence 1
On the approach into low visibility, the captain flew the aircraft using the real-time EFVS imagery on the head-up display until the runway environment came into natural sight.
Example Sentence 2
Real-time EFVS imagery must meet certification standards before it can be used to reduce required runway visual range.