RVR
Pronunciation: R-V-R
Also written as: RVR — Runway Visual Range
Runway Visual Range: an instrumentally derived measure of the distance over which a pilot can see the runway surface markings or lights.
Full Definition
Runway Visual Range (RVR) is a meteorological measurement, expressed in metres (or feet in some jurisdictions), that indicates the horizontal distance over which a pilot on the runway centreline can see the runway surface markings, edge lights, or centreline lights. RVR is measured by transmissometers or forward scatter meters positioned at the runway threshold, midpoint, and stop end. It is a key parameter for determining whether Low Visibility Operations (LVO) must be activated and whether specific Category II or III instrument approach procedures are applicable. Editors must express RVR values consistently in the units specified by the regulator: metres in ICAO and European documents, feet in FAA documents. The abbreviation 'RVR' should be spelled out on first use.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the unit of measurement (metres or feet). Do not substitute 'visibility' for 'RVR'; they are distinct measurements with different instruments and values.
In Context
- "RVR on Runway 28R dropped to 200 metres, triggering the activation of Category III procedures." — Air traffic control weather log
- "Editors should verify that all RVR values in the LVO section are expressed in metres, not feet." — Document quality review note