Universal Avionics Nears Certification Tests for ClearVision EFVS

ClearVision is an Enhanced Flight Vision System that provides head-up capability to overcome low visibility conditions in day or night.
Credit: United Avionics

Universal Avionics is preparing to enter its ClearVision Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) into formal flight testing for certification on a Boeing 737NG, marking the first large transport aircraft to be certified with a dual-pilot EFVS featuring head-wearable displays (HWD).

Designed to be easily adaptable to multiple aircraft platforms, the ClearVision solution presents a new option for Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) operators, who until recently had to rely on a single, fixed left-hand head-up display as their only available option on the market.

The 737NG ClearVision installation features dual SkyLens HWDs and a single EVS-5000 Multispectral Camera. Marketed as AerAware, the solution stems from a partnership between Universal Avionics and AerSale, which provided the prototype aircraft and led the engineering, design, modification and installation. AerSale is also now taking the lead on FAA certification flights. Final supplemental type certificate approval by the FAA is currently pending.

“AerAware will serve as the only commercially viable retrofit solution for thousands of 737NG, including the BBJ, that substantially increases situational awareness during low-visibility operations and reduces natural visibility requirements on approach, thereby increasing safety,” Universal Avionics CEO Dror Yahav said in a statement.

“Designed for EFVS operations all the way to touchdown and rollout in low-visibility conditions, ClearVision improves accessibility to most airports, a key for business aircraft operators, and more broadly, improves approach capacity at congested airports leading to fewer delays,” Yahav added.

Ben Goldstein

Based in Boston, Ben covers advanced air mobility and is managing editor of Aviation Week Network’s AAM Report.