Regulatory Requirements and Safety Standards

Aviation night vision goggles are required to undergo regular inspection to comply with FAA and manufacturer standards. Each aviation NVG inspection ensures these critical flight tools remain airworthy and safe for operation. Night Flight Concepts follows FAA Part 145 procedures and uses calibrated test equipment so every set of aviation night vision goggles passes compliance audits and meets flight readiness requirements.

Risks of Operating NVGs Without Scheduled Inspections

Operating aviation night vision goggles without scheduled checks exposes pilots to unnecessary risks. Small defects such as a faint NVG emission point, shading, or edge glow can escalate into severe image distortion during missions. Delaying the required aviation NVG inspection can lead to sudden malfunctions in flight, loss of visibility, or potential mission failure, compromising both safety and performance.

Long Term Cost Savings Through Preventive Maintenance

Regular service helps detect issues in night vision goggles aviation systems before they worsen. Preventive maintenance limits emergency failures, reduces replacement costs, and prevents downtime. By maintaining optimal gain, brightness, and focus, operators can use their aviation night vision goggles longer, saving on frequent replacements and maintaining smooth operations.

How Inspections Extend NVG Life and Improve Mission Readiness

A well executed aviation NVG inspection not only restores optical clarity and function but also builds a detailed performance record. These records help identify early wear patterns in night vision goggles aviation units. Consistent trend tracking helps fleet managers maintain mission readiness, keeping all aviation night vision goggles in peak condition and available when needed.

NVG Pre Flight and Operator Guidance

Essential Pre Flight Checks

Pilots should verify battery status, focus, and gain before flight. Any sign of shading, edge glow, or an NVG emission point means the system should be sent for inspection rather than used in operation.

Handling, Storage, and Cleaning

Always store aviation night vision goggles in protective cases, away from bright light and moisture. Clean lenses with approved materials and avoid touching optical surfaces to prevent long term damage.

When to Send NVGs for Inspection

Send your night vision goggles aviation system for testing at least every 180 days or immediately after noticing image issues, impact damage, or electrical instability.

Technician inspecting a night vision goggle (NVG) in a lab setting

Measuring performance parameters of night vision goggles using specialized equipment

Accurate Performance Measurements

To secure the safe use of NVG during helicopter operations, another key service feature we provide is performance measurements for all aviation NVGs. As the night vision goggles come through our inspection facility, we measure their performance and enter the data we collect in our database.We will then conduct a continued accumulation of data as the goggles rotate through inspections. This step allows us to develop a trend analysis which helps us determine certain NVGs that may be aging and showing signs of reduced performance over time.

Professional Aviation NVG Repair Services

Our aviation night vision goggles specialists and other crew members are experienced and highly trained to handle any NVG issue you may have. If you see any blemishes or defects on your goggles, send them our way for proper inspection or repair. Please complete our shipping form and send it along with your NVG.

LOOK FOR COMMON NVG FAULTS
PRIOR TO EACH FLIGHT BEFORE EACH FLIGHT

Operational Defects

Operational defects are an immediate cause of rejecting NVGs for use. Once detected, the NVGs must be returned to our facility for evaluation and repair. These are the four operational defects NVG users should watch for:

Shading

Shading occurs when the image darkens in one area, creating an incomplete view. This is usually caused by a failing photocathode and requires immediate repair to restore the aviation night vision goggles to safe operation.

Edge Glow

Edge glow appears as a light ring near the image border, caused by internal feedback or phosphor screen defects. If it remains after the lens is covered, technicians remove the affected component for repair.

Emission Points

An NVG emission point is a bright spot that stays visible even when external light is blocked. Persistent emission points signal internal tube problems that must be corrected before returning the goggles to service.

Cosmetic Blemishes

These are usually manufacturing flaws. Cosmetic blemishes found in night vision goggles don’t necessarily render them ineffective; these flaws do not affect the image intensifier reliability. Nevertheless, some cosmetic blemishes can worsen over time. And while these blemishes are not usually a cause for rejection, they can get severe enough to interfere with the goggles' performance.

If you find any blemish in your NVG, document the specific nature of the problem on the provided maintenance forms. Identify the position of the defect by using the clock method and approximate distance from the center (e.g., 5 o’clock toward the outside, 2:30 near the center, or 1 o’clock midway.) You may then return the NVG for repair to our FAA Part 145 NVG Inspection and Repair Station.

Here are some of the most common cosmetic blemishes you should look out for:

Cosmetic Blemishes and Bright Spots

Cosmetic blemishes and bright spots can distract pilots but may not immediately affect performance. Their position and size are documented so recurring flaws can be tracked during future inspections.

Output Brightness Variation

This is characterized by areas of varying brightness levels in or across the image area in an individual monocular. The lower contrast does not show distinct lines of demarcation. They also don’t degrade image quality.

For more information about our NVG inspection and maintenance repair services, please fill out our contact form so we can adequately assist you.

Veiling Glare, Image Distortion, and Fixed Pattern Noise

Veiling glare, distortion, or fixed pattern noise can reduce contrast and clarity. These conditions are common in aging night vision goggles aviation systems and are carefully checked to maintain high image quality.

Image Disparity

This condition may exist when there is a difference in brightness between the two image intensifier assemblies within the same binocular.

Black Spots

These are usually dirt or debris stuck between the lenses. Generally, you can assume the black spot was there during acceptance. However, occasionally the need may arise to verify the location, size, and number of spots against the allowed specifications for the image intensifier.

Chicken Wire

These are irregular patterns of dark lines found all over or in parts of the image area. Under the worst-case condition, these lines may form hexagonal or square-wave-shaped lines. These lines exist due to the defective fibers not transmitting light at the boundaries of fiber bundles in the output optic of the image intensifier.

Our NVG Inspection Process

Step 1 – Receiving, Intake, and Initial Verification

When aviation night vision goggles arrive at the Waco, Texas facility, technicians confirm model and serial numbers, inspect packaging, and verify the shipping form. This step establishes baseline conditions before starting the detailed aviation NVG inspection.

Step 2 – Comprehensive Functional Testing

Specialists evaluate battery strength, current draw, gain, focus, and diopter alignment. Each aviation night vision goggles unit is tested under controlled lighting to ensure reliable power and clear, stable images that meet operational standards.

Step 3 – Optical and Imaging Evaluation

Technicians perform detailed image testing to identify any NVG emission point, edge glow, shading, or flickering issues. They also inspect for cosmetic blemishes, bright spots, and optical variations that may interfere with pilot vision.

Step 4 – Data Recording and Trend Analysis

Each test result is entered into the company’s database. By comparing previous and current results, technicians can monitor how each aviation NVG performs over time and predict when a component may need replacement.

Step 5 – Repair, Component Replacement, and Calibration

If defects are found, technicians replace or repair parts using FAA approved methods. Re calibration ensures the two monoculars in the aviation night vision goggles remain properly aligned and balanced for accurate flight vision.

Step 6 – Certification, Documentation, and Logbook Updates

Every completed aviation NVG inspection comes with a test data sheet, compliance certificate, and maintenance log entry. These records verify that the night vision goggles aviation set meets FAA requirements and is ready for safe flight.

Step 7 – Turnaround and Return Logistics

Standard turnaround is quick, depending on the extent of repair. The aviation night vision goggles are repackaged securely, labeled, and shipped back using the carrier chosen on the shipping form to minimize downtime.

Why Choose Our FAA Certified NVG Inspection Services

FAA Part 145 Certified Facility

Night Flight Concepts operates an FAA Part 145 repair station authorized to inspect, repair, and certify aviation night vision goggles. This provides official airworthiness documentation and ensures full compliance with all aviation maintenance requirements.

Experienced Technicians with Aviation and Military Backgrounds

The inspection team is composed of former aviators and maintainers with direct experience in night operations. Their understanding of how aviation NVGs perform in real flight conditions leads to accurate evaluations and dependable repairs.

Advanced Equipment and Calibration Standards

Each inspection uses calibrated instruments to verify gain, resolution, and alignment accuracy. Consistent procedures ensure every aviation NVG inspection produces repeatable, trustworthy data.

Data Driven Maintenance

Performance data from each inspection is compiled into a long term database. This trend reporting helps operators identify declining units early, ensuring every set of aviation night vision goggles remains mission ready.

Proven Track Record

Night Flight Concepts serves law enforcement, EMS, military, and commercial aviation clients worldwide. Their consistent performance and reliability have made them a trusted partner in maintaining aviation night vision goggles safety.

How Often Are NVG Inspections Required?

Manufacturers and the FAA recommend an aviation NVG inspection every 180 days. Only an FAA certified repair station can provide formal airworthiness certification.

Which NVG Models Are Supported?

Night Flight Concepts services most Generation 3 aviation night vision goggles, including Harris, L3, and AN or AVS models. Contact the team to confirm specific model support.

What Happens If an NVG Fails Inspection?

If a night vision goggles aviation unit fails inspection, technicians identify the fault and perform approved repairs or replacements. The goggles are then retested and certified for use.

Shipping and Packaging Requirements

Complete the NVG shipping form, note all serial numbers, and include details of any known issues. Pack your aviation night vision goggles securely to avoid damage during transport.

Warranty and Return Process

Warranty coverage depends on manufacturer terms and service agreements. After inspection, you receive documentation showing all repairs and tests performed.

Service Areas

Night Flight Concepts provides aviation NVG inspection and maintenance services to operators across the United States, Canada, and international markets including law enforcement, EMS, utility, corporate, and military aviation units. Whether you operate a single aircraft or manage a large multi base fleet, their team can coordinate shipping, inspection, and support to keep your night vision capability mission ready wherever you fly.

Get Started With Your NVG Inspection

Submitting NVGs for Inspection

Visit Night Flight Concepts online, fill out the NVG shipping form, and send your aviation night vision goggles to the FAA Part 145 repair station in Waco, Texas.

Documentation and Shipping Checklist

Include the completed form, serial numbers, and defect notes. Proper documentation helps technicians focus on any NVG emission point, shading, or flickering issues you observed in use.

Contact and Support

For quotes or technical assistance, use the website contact form or call Night Flight Concepts directly. Their experts can help you design a maintenance plan that keeps every aviation night vision goggles system in peak operational condition.