Applications Of AI-Enhanced Low-Visibility Vision Systems To Rotorcraft Missions

Abstract

In fixed-wing aviation, vision systems enable operations below standard landing minima by providing "equivalent visual cues," with well-established operational benefits. Rotorcraft have not yet leveraged such capabilities, primarily due to their unpredictable and diverse mission profiles, which contrast with structured runway-based operations. Today, the convergence of advanced sensing technologies, high-performance displays, and AI-driven algorithms offers new opportunities to enhance rotorcraft safety and operability in degraded visual environments (DVE) beyond the existing Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and Performance-based Navigation (PBN). Emerging systems can provide 360° situational awareness, assist pilots in high workload conditions, and detect obstacles, including wires, with unprecedented reliability. This paper explores the architecture and functionality of such systems, proposes operational concepts tailored to rotorcraft use cases, and outlines pathways for certification. The integration of these technologies promises to reduce weather-related mission cancellations, mitigate CFIT risk, and support safer, more capable all-weather operations across multiple rotorcraft domains.