First there was enhanced vision, then synthetic vision and now there’s Forward Vision’s forward looking infrared (FLIR) system. As AVwebtold you last fall, Forward Vision, which is a subsidiary of Florida-based Aerocomp, introduced the system (for experimental aircraft only) at the 2004 AOPA Expo in Long Beach. Since then, the company has been looking at the long-term potential and is now working on a certified version. The experimental system, which includes a mounting pod, costs about $18,000 but certified models will likely cost about 40 percent more. FLIR gathers infrared light and presents it in a black and white image on a television or computer screen. Because most objects and terrain have different temperatures, they show up in contrast on the screen. The result is a remarkably clear picture of the world ahead through darkness, smoke, fog, rain and snow.
FLIR Certification Sought
Key Takeaways:
- Forward Vision, an Aerocomp subsidiary, has developed a Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) system for aircraft.
- The FLIR system creates a clear black-and-white image by detecting temperature differences, enabling pilots to "see" through darkness, smoke, fog, rain, and snow.
- Initially released for experimental aircraft at around $18,000, a certified version is in development and expected to cost approximately 40% more.
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