Video: Head-Up Display Augments Helicopter Pilot Vision

Recent testing of a new head-mounted display system has shown that helicopter pilots may be able to navigate without being able to see through the cockpit window.

Rega, a Swiss air rescue company, recently tested Elbit’s Skyvis Day/Night Head-Mounted Display onboard a AW-109SP helicopter.

The testing involved covering the cockpit window completely, which simulated limited visibility conditions, forcing the pilots to rely solely on the new display technology. This phase of the testing demonstrated successful landing of the helicopter on helipads, such as those on a hospital rooftop. The test was supervised by a safety pilot who could see outside the craft.

Skyvis provides helicopter pilots with a conformal head-out view, which displays flight, vehicle and navigation symbology for operation in the day, night and inclement weather. It is an add-on to the pilot’s helmet and easily integrated with minimal footprint in the cockpit, according to Elbit.

The system assists during maneuvers close to the ground and in conditions such as transition from Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) to Visual Flight Rules (VFR), without the need to look inside the cockpit.

For more information, visit www.elbitsystems.com.