Originally Posted by
2StgTurbine
^That is why the long term goal is to blend both technologies. You would have the computer based terrain displayed with the relativity short-range infrared mixed in with it. So during an IMC approach, you would see the synthetic terrain and runway 5 miles out, but as you approach 1/2 mile final, the deer picked up with the IR camera would be shown walking onto the runway.
Here is what Honeywell is doing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEvXr1nsJcE
Looks like good system.
I just got back from doing some approaches with another pilot and longtime friend. We practiced flying to 30 ft AGL or so with me using the synvis (he was safety pilot ready to call go-around or take airplane) and I was heads down until where roundout would start. The synvis pic of the runway is too small to use it from the FAF so I used RNAV to mins (was ~300 AGL this approach) then synvis to 40-50 AGL, just beyond runway threshold, then 30-40 ft AGL. Did 2 low approaches, and once to landing heads up around 30 ft above runway.
Very easy to do and works surprisingly well. Worst part was transition to visual after looking up and getting the hood out of the way quickly, ballooned a bit due to maintaining higher approach speeds longer.
It is an interesting prospect for the GA pilot. I don't think I would ever do it in real conditions but I might practice this on occasion. I was really concerned about the danger practicing this but with an alert very competent safety pilot it felt ok.