Research Requirements for Future Visual Guidance System

Airport visual aids provide essential information to pilots to facilitate their tasks of taking off, landing, and maneuvering the aircraft on the airport surfaces. Application of state-of-the-art technology can significantly improve the design and performance of the lighting, marking, and signage visual aids that provide the pilots with essential air and ground movement guidance. This study was undertaken to identify deficiencies in existing visual guidance systems and to forecast or project needs of the future. It also describes possible applications of new technology for resolving existing deficiencies and developing state-of-the-art visual guidance systems of the future. The study report identifies a number of potential research areas and new technologies of potential benefit to visual guidance. The recommended research areas are grouped by category according to phase of operation.

DOT/FAA/CT-93/49

Author: Harold W. Olson, Thomas H. Paprocki