Astronics Max-Viz is collaborating with the U.S. FAA in a research project to study operational concepts for the use of enhanced flight vision systems (EFVS) in helicopters, the company announced today. While EFVS rules exist for approaches to runways at airports, comparable regulations for EFVS do not exist for helicopters flying to onshore or offshore helipads/heliports.
For the study, Astronics is providing its Max-Viz 1500 and 2300 enhanced vision systems to the FAA for integration into the agency’s Sikorsky S-76 testbed. “The Astronics Max-Viz EVS sensors will be used in flight tests and data acquisition for EVS and EFVS implementation,” said Astronics Max-Viz manager of sales and business development Dale Farr.
Flight-testing is being conducted by the FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center at the Atlantic City International Airport in New Jersey. The Max-Viz 1500 sensor will provide baseline testing, which will be followed with the installation of the Max-Viz 2300 for observation of LED lighting on the blended high-resolution long-wave infrared image.
Flights are planned to occur in various weather and visibility conditions, day, night and twilight and via alternative approaches. The FAA will use the results of the study to evaluate the effectiveness of EFVS technology for helicopter flight safety and operations.