Definition
A Runway Visual Range value of 2,400 feet, meaning the horizontal distance a pilot in a moving aircraft on the runway can be expected to see down the runway from the approach end is 2,400 feet, as measured by transmissometer equipment near the touchdown zone. This value is a common minimum visibility requirement for a standard Category I ILS approach.
Plain English
On final approach, the equipment near the runway is reporting that you can see about 2,400 feet down the runway from the touchdown end. For a standard ILS approach, that is usually the lowest visibility you are allowed to land in.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach minimums, ILS approach category tables, and weather reports for low-visibility runway operations.
Why Pilots Care
It directly determines whether an approach may be continued to landing or requires a missed approach in low-visibility conditions.
Grounding Statement
Picture looking down the runway in mist or fog: RVR is the reported distance ahead that the runway lights or markings should remain visible.
Intuition Check
RVR 2,400 feet does not mean general visibility is 2,400 feet in every direction. It specifically refers to how far you can see along that runway.
Example Sentence 1
Tower reported RVR 2,400 feet for runway 27, which met the minimum for our Category I ILS approach.
Example Sentence 2
With reported RVR at 2,400 feet we continued to the decision altitude and landed without issue.