An improved algorithm is proposed for single image haze removal using dark channel prior to avoid the low efficiency of the classical algorithm and color distortion of haze removing in bright area. The proposed algorithm is reflected in the following two aspects. One is the spatial adaptability of the atmospheric transmittance estimation by the introduction of a blocking idea. The other is that the bright areas can be contained by the absolute value of the difference of atmospheric light and dark channel. Compared with the classic algorithm

the time complexity of the algorithm is decreased and the weakness of transmission in the bright area is remedied. Experimental results show that the improved algorithm is efficient and feasible.