LVO
Pronunciation: L-V-O
Also written as: LVO — Low Visibility Operations
Low Visibility Operations: procedures activated at an airport when meteorological conditions reduce visibility below standard minima.
Full Definition
Low Visibility Operations (LVO) are a set of enhanced procedures implemented at airports when weather conditions—primarily reduced runway visual range (RVR) due to fog, heavy rain, or snow—fall below specified thresholds, typically an RVR of less than 550 metres. Under LVO, movement on the manoeuvring area is strictly controlled to prevent runway incursions, and aircraft operations shift to Category II or III instrument approach procedures. Editors working on LVO-related documents must handle the terminology with precision: LVO, Low Visibility Procedures (LVP), and Low Visibility Take-Off (LVTO) are distinct terms that must not be used interchangeably. Formatting of RVR values should follow ICAO convention (in metres, not feet, in European documents).
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish LVO (the overall regime), LVP (the procedures themselves), and LVTO (take-off specific). Spell out on first use.
In Context
- "LVO were declared at 06:14 when RVR on Runway 09R fell to 350 metres." — Airport meteorological report
- "Vehicle movements on the manoeuvring area are suspended unless essential during LVO." — Airside driving regulations document