New Cockpit Vision System Earns FAA Certification for Boeing 737s

AerSale Inc., in partnership with Universal Avionics, has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for its AerAware cockpit vision system, designed to enhance pilot situational awareness during takeoff and landing in low-visibility conditions. The system has been certified for the Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft.

AerAware utilizes a camera mounted on the aircraft's nose and a wearable head display that overlays flight data and imagery directly into the pilot's field of view. This technology aims to address the challenges posed by fog, smoke, haze, and darkness, which frequently cause flight delays and cancellations. Dror Yahav, CEO of Universal Avionics and a former commercial pilot, cited his own experiences navigating low-visibility approaches as motivation for developing the system.

"You turn your head up and look outside, and there’s just nothing — pitch black or foggy," Yahav said.

The AerAware system integrates sensor data and imagery to improve situational awareness, particularly during critical phases of flight. Unlike traditional head-up displays, AerAware provides both pilots with the same information through a dual wearable system, drawing inspiration from military helmet-mounted displays. The system is designed to assist pilots at both takeoff and landing.

The FAA has been increasing its focus on runway safety, with pilot deviations accounting for a significant portion of runway incursions. In fiscal year 2025, there were 1,636 runway incursions, a decrease from previous years. AerSale notes that airline interest in the AerAware system has grown amid this focus on runway safety and low-visibility operations.

Installation of the AerAware system on each aircraft takes approximately two to three days, followed by pilot training through an approved program. AerSale reports that airlines evaluating the system consider certification, installation downtime, and integration into existing operations as key factors, with safety and operational efficiency being primary drivers for upgrades to Boeing 737 fleets.