Evaluation of night vision goggle (NVG) utilization in military helicopters, and possible applications to the emergency medical service (EMS) industry

This thesis presents an evaluation of the feasibility of allowing civilian night vision goggle (NVG) operations to be conducted by Emergency Medical Service (EMS) helicopters. Several areas where investigated. First, current night vision imaging device technologies are discussed. Then, various aircraft lighting modifications, compatible with night vision imaging systems (NVIS), are presented. Also, current military qualification procedures are presented. A review of a recent military technical evaluation with ground and flight test data, as well as an analysis and discussion of the results, is included. Finally, the current Federal Aviation Administration position regarding the civil utilization of NVGs is presented. The author concludes that there is significant potential for civil NVG helicopter flight operations. The author further concludes that the FAA should develop a standard for helicopter NVIS compatible interior and exterior lighting, and establish a standardized training program which would culminate with a separate pilot rating for NVG qualification. The author recommends that civil NVG operations should only be conducted with third generation NVGs. The author also recommends that the proposed lighting standard should be a modification of existing military requirements. Finally, the author proposes a civil pilot NVG practical test standard.