FAA's December 13, 2016 final rule changes how an Enhanced Flight Vision System, abbreviated EFVS, may be used on certain straight-in instrument approaches. Previously, the described authorization allowed EFVS in place of natural vision down to 100 feet above touchdown-zone elevation. The final rule permits eligible operations to continue to the runway, landing and rollout. [2016-28714][2013-13454]

That is a change in authorized use, not a statement that any cockpit display qualifies. Touchdown-and-rollout operations require additional airworthiness safeguards, and pilot qualifications still apply. The rule concerns defined instrument-flight operations; it does not supply unlimited low-visibility permission. FAA's stated access and efficiency goals are not observations of service or safety improvements. [2016-28714][2013-13454]

The June 11, 2013 proposal is useful because it shows that training, recent experience and proficiency were contemplated alongside expansion. Those requirements were proposed, not imposed by publication of the proposal. The final text also rejects the proposed use of proficiency checks instead of initial ground and flight training or supplemental EFVS training. The proposed and adopted pathways therefore cannot be treated as identical. [2016-28714][2013-13454]

The original general effective date is March 13, 2017, with specified amendments deferred to March 13, 2018. Readers need both dates to understand the historical sequence without assuming every provision began together. The proposal and final rule belong to one FAA rulemaking, not independent corroboration. They explain authorization and safeguards, but do not establish an individual aircraft's eligibility or offer instructions for conducting an approach. [2016-28714][2013-13454]

Source documents

  1. Revisions to Operational Requirements for the Use of Enhanced Flight Vision Systems (EFVS) and to Pilot Compartment View Requirements for Vision Systemshttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2016-12-13/html/2016-28714.htm
  2. Revisions to Operational Requirements for the Use of Enhanced Flight Vision Systems (EFVS) and to Pilot Compartment View Requirements for Vision Systemshttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2013-06-11/html/2013-13454.htm