Considerations and Safety Implications for Night Vision Goggle Use in Civilian Helicopter Operations

Robert Joseph Gendreau

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to examine and discuss the considerations and safety implications of night vision goggle (NVG) use in civilian helicopter operations. In the last decade nearly 200 people have died in 96 fatal nighttime helicopter accidents.
 
In 85% of those accidents, "night" or "darkness" was cited as a causal or related factor. While the best obtainable unaided night visual acuity is 20/200, currently available NVGs allow up to 20/25 vision. As a result of these observations, a research question was formulated. That is, do the safety implications and costs associated with implementing a night vision goggle program in a civil helicopter operation significantly outweigh the dangers of unaided night flight and the potential costs of a fatal helicopter accident? 

To investigate this matter a 30-item survey was designed and distributed to individuals involved in a variety of civilian helicopter operations. The analyzed data showed that over 90% of the respondents were routinely required to fly at night with 97% indicating there were significant hazards to night flight. Additionally, 84% were familiar with the use of NVGs while 76% felt that the used of NVGs was safe. 

Furthermore, the survey population spoke clearly regarding its positive support for the use of NVGs with 80% indicating that NVGs would make them feel more comfortable flying at night. The study showed that the proper use of NVGs can be a tremendous tool for mission enhancement during night operations. Moreover, night vision technology has evolved to a degree that civilian helicopter operators can utilize it safely and effectively. 

In light of this, it was recommended that governmental oversight agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration move quickly to adopt a common set of operating procedures and policies, thereby authorizing NVG use by civilian helicopter operators. 

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