Terrain awareness (TAWS) visualised

3D ModelNoAI

The Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) found in modern commercial aircraft may include a Terrain Awareness and Display (TAD) feature, which provides a visual representation of the terrain ahead to alert pilots to potential hazards. The TAD uses a database, as well as information from aircraft sensors, to determine its position relative to terrain and obstacles in its path.

Shown here is representation of how the system ‘sees’ terrain ahead of the aircraft. The land is colour-coded from green to red relative to the altitude of the aircraft and corresponds to the vertical displacement between terrain elevation.

Note that the aeroplane depicted here is not to scale and has been enlarged to aid visibility.

Discover a pilot’s-eye view of TAWS with this navigation display model.

Surface texture copyright Mapbox.