RVR is not Visibility

The FAA helps us confuse runway visual range (RVR) with flight visibility, but theyre different concepts. RVR is an instrumentally-derived value at a runway. Flight visibility is a pilot-observed distance in flight. Regulation 91.175 is clear-flight visibility is required to descend below DA/MDA. Yet, approach charts confusingly equate the two by providing both RVR and visibility values.

Key Takeaways:

• Runway Visual Range (RVR) and flight visibility are distinct concepts, with RVR being an instrumental measurement at the runway and flight visibility being the pilot's observation from the cockpit, which is legally required to descend below DA/MDA.
• The FAA's approach charts and guidance materials often confusingly equate RVR and flight visibility, despite legal interpretations clarifying their differences.
• There are mathematical discrepancies in the FAA's conversions between RVR values and miles (e.g., equating 2400 RVR with 1/2 mile, which is approximately 2600 feet), adding to pilot confusion.

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