FAA Approves AerSale MR Headset for 737 Pilots to Peek Through Clouds
Synthetic vision is reportedly used by the headset to increase visibility in low-light conditions.
Recently, the FAA approved an STC to allow the use of the AerAware SKYLENS (HWD) head-worn display as a component of the advanced flying vision system Comprehensive. Transport pilots can now see more clearly thanks to this mixed reality headgear, especially in low light conditions.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the Enhanced Flight Vision System for the Boeing B737NG product line, according to AerSale, the company that makes the AerAware system. This accomplishment makes the aircraft the first major transport to be approved with a full dual-pilot EFVS solution including a Head-Wearable Display, as well as the first commercial EFVS system in the world to attain a 50% visual advantage.
The gadget resembles a heads-up display, or HUD. Information about aircraft performance is shown so that you don’t have to glance down at the instruments. This technology is special because it can overlay artificial landscapes onto the pilot’s field of vision. The landscape information presented is synchronised with the pilot’s head movement, providing a 180-degree field of vision, akin to modern fighter pilot helmets. This theoretically implies that you may still benefit from the HUD’s restricted field of vision.
The Universal Avionics/Elbit Systems EVS-5000 multispectral cameras must be installed for the gadget to function. The product booklet states that an aggregate of 4 internal lenses and 6 sensors inside are needed to run the system.
Although the advantages of the device are not entirely clear from the company’s website, it is stated that it improves operator effectiveness by lowering the possibility of deviations and go-arounds in low vision situations and increases safety via enhanced situational consciousness.
Even while the idea seems intriguing, these kinds of gadgets are currently in their infancy. According to the firm, pilots have an optical edge over the unaided eye of 50%. In poor visibility situations, it relegates reported vision by 50%. It is stated in the sales booklet that wearing it with spectacles and a headset is comfortable. It would be fascinating to find out how long you can wear the gadget comfortably while in flight, since headgear and MR gear tend to cause weariness over time.
An aircraft’s deployment is estimated to take three to five days, in addition to pilot training. Since the gadget is only now approved for the Boeing 737NG, it is probably intended for use by both current and potential Boeing Business Jet passengers.