5.2.8.1 Considerations when implementing visual presentation technical enablers

When found beneficial (as described in Sections 4.1.1, 4.1.4 and 4.2.1), the ATS provider may evaluate the possibility of complementing the visual presentation with tools and functionalities such as the ones described in Section 5.2.8. The ATS provider should conduct an in-depth evaluation of such technical enablers, including the necessary validation activities and human factors assessment, as part of the corresponding safety assessment of the local implementation. When implementing additional sensors intended to improve the visual range, care should be taken to mitigate the potential risk induced by ATCOs/AFISOs having a different perception of visibility compared to pilots (e.g. the ATCO/AFISO might ‘forget’ that the pilot operates in a reduced horizontal visibility if they see the aerodrome clearly). When implementing overlaid information in the visual presentation, care should be taken about the potential unintended loss of such information and the associated risks that may arise as a consequence. For instance, one risk may arise from introducing a dependency on certain functions/tools to achieve a certain level of situational awareness or capacity. Appropriate degraded mode procedures should be developed to handle such situations. Furthermore, if any digitally overlaid information is implemented in the visual presentation, it is strongly recommended that all such overlaid information is possible to toggle on/off as well as to adjust in light intensity by the ATCO/AFISO. This way the following could be avoided: potential blocking of important visual information, ATCO/AFISO information overload, ATCO/AFISO distraction/dazzling during darkness/night-time operations due to the possibility to adapt to the light conditions at the aerodrome.