Night Vision Goggle Systems
•
0 likes•679 views
Night Vision Google Systems - Information Brochure
Recommended
More Related Content
Similar to Night Vision Goggle Systems
Similar to Night Vision Goggle Systems (20)
More from FAA Safety Team Central Florida
More from FAA Safety Team Central Florida (20)
Recently uploaded
Recently uploaded (20)
Night Vision Goggle Systems
- 1. TeamTeam HQ101123 Night Vision Goggle Systems w w w . F A A S a f e t y . g o v Night vision goggles (NVGs) are designed to provide the pilot with some of the visual cues they lose at night. When pilots are properly trained in the use of NVGs and use NVGs properly, they can better manage risk during night operations. Training Is a Must However, pilot workload increases when using NVGs. Pilots must learn a new set of skills to use NVGs properly and take advantage of the benefits. NVGs are not simple-to-operate devices that pilots can just pick up and use. They need special- ized training. Advantages and Disadvantages of Using NVGs Advantages 1. NVGs enhance operational safety. 2. NVGs improve situational awareness. 3. NVGs increase ability to see and avoid obstructions at night. Disadvantages 1. NVGs increase fatigue due to eyestrain. 2. Use of NVGs requires dark adaptation time. 3. Monocular vision of NVGs affects depth perception when operating near the ground (takeoff, landing, and hovering). Photo Credit Aviation Specialties Unlimited Collaborative Support Air Carrier Operations Branch, AFS-250 Aircraft Maintenance Division, General Aviation Branch, AFS-350 FTW Rotorcraft Aircraft Certification Office Aircraft Evaluation Group, Rotorcraft Support STL FSDO HEMS Certificate Management Unit www.FAASafety.gov Your Aviation Safety Web Site Without NVGs With NVGs
- 2. Think of Night Vision Goggles as an Entire System NVGsare only one part of an entire Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS). The system consists of an FAA-approved NVG-compatible lighting system, properly trained flight and maintenance crews, and an FAA-accepted maintenance program for both the aircraft NVIS lighting system and the NVGs. If any part of the NVIS lighting system is not working properly or the NVGs are beyond their Operators must know what NVG performance specifi- cations they need. If operators fail to thoroughly research NVG performance specifications and specify exactly what NVG specifications they need, then it is possible that they will receive substandard NVGs that will hinder their pilots’ ability to function at night. Currently only three manufacturers provide “FAA- Accepted” NVGs: ITT’s F4949, NIVISYS, and L-3’s M949. Within each of these models are varying levels of performance. Operators must know what level of performance they need and what NVG part number provides them with that level of performance. Overcoming Workload Pilots well trained in the use and limitations of NVGs will be better prepared for the increased mental workload associated with identifying obstacles, terrain, and other potential hazards under various Currently only three manufacturers provide “FAA-Accepted” NVGs: ITT’s F4949 NIVISYS L-3’s M949 Current regulations pertaining to night vision goggles: 14 CFR 61.1 (b) (12) and (13) Definitions—Night vision goggles and operations. 14 CFR 61.31 (k) Additional training required for night vision goggle operations. 14 CFR 61.51 (k) Logging night vision goggle time. 14 CFR 61.57 (f) Night vision goggle operating experience. 14 CFR 61.57 (g) Night vision goggle proficiency check. 14 CFR 61.195 (k) Training for night vision goggle operations. 14 CFR 91.205 (h) Instrument and equipment requirements for night vision goggle operations. service date, then NVG operations cannot be performed. NVGs are used as an aid to night flying during visual meteorological conditions (VMC). They are not meant to be used as a tool to help pilots take unacceptable risks. Pilots must ensure that they are always in a situation where, if any part of the NVIS fails, they can safely continue operations under visual flight rules (VFR). NVGs are not designed to see through clouds. Operators must always comply with VFR weather minimums during a flight. For air carrier operations, these weather minimums are prescribed in the air carrier’s Operation Specifications. The use of NVGs will not change or modify any of the existing regulations. environmental lighting conditions. Also, a pilot well trained in the use of NVG equipment will be bettered prepared to overcome night flight stresses, including— • Working outside the crewmembers’ circadian rhythm envelope. • Fatigue due to eyestrain (particularly if using poorly maintained or incorrectly adjusted NVGs). • Increased helmet weight. • Lack of visual cues. • Aggressive scanning techniques required to deal with NVGs’ restricted field of view. • Possible crew rest/duty cycle issues. Use of NVGs can amplify the stresses associated with night operations for poorly trained and ill-prepared pilots. Operators wishing to pursue NVG authorization can access inspector guidance at www.faa.gov. (See FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 4—Aircraft Equipment and Operational Authorization, Chapter 7—Rotorcraft Authorizations and Limitations, Section 4—Night Vision Imaging Systems.) As with any technology available to aviators, NVGs and NVIS are risk-reduction tools if used properly. This technology in no way replaces good, sound aeronautical decisionmaking—the critical link that can break an impending accident chain.