New Cockpit Vision Systems Being Introduced to Commercial Aviation
Phoenix, Arizona – Dror Yahav, who once worked as a commercial pilot and is now the CEO of Universal Avionics, shared his experience flying in low-visibility scenarios where runways only became visible towards the end of landing. He is actively involved in bringing new cockpit vision systems to the commercial aviation sector.
Universal Avionics has teamed up with AerSale to create a system called AerAware, which has recently received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Boeing 737 next-generation aircraft.
This innovative system incorporates a nose-mounted augmented vision camera along with a wearable head display, aiming to enhance pilots’ situational awareness by overlaying essential flight data and images into their line of sight.
Pilots Testing Groundbreaking Collision Warning System
Yahav remarked that this development aligns well with his own nighttime landing experiences in limited visibility. “When you look up and see nothing but darkness or fog, it’s a different experience,” he noted.
He explained that the AerAware system integrates sensor data and imagery to boost awareness during the critical phases of takeoff and landing. Unlike traditional heads-up displays, AerAware features dual wearable systems that provide identical information to both pilots in the cockpit.
Yahav pointed out that the concept draws inspiration from military helmet-mounted displays that use advanced technology, like those seen in the F-35 Lightning II jet.
Runway Safety Under Scrutiny
The FAA has officially certified the AerAware system for the Boeing 737 next-generation aircraft. Runway safety remains a high priority, with a reported 1,636 runway incursions in fiscal year 2025, a decrease from 1,758 in 2024. Interestingly, over half of the approaches led to runway incidents due to pilot deviations.
Yahav mentioned that installing the system typically takes around two to three days per aircraft, followed by training for pilots according to an approved curriculum.
Jacqueline Carlon, senior vice president of marketing and communications at AerSale, conveyed that airlines are particularly focused on the certification process, potential installation downtime, and how well systems can be integrated into existing operations.
She stated, “Installation lasts about two to three days for each aircraft, and then there’s an extensive training program.” This push for safety and efficiency reflects the increasing attention from airlines as they look to upgrade their operations.
