When foggy conditions hit airports, it can have a significant impact on airline operations worldwide. During winter months, the risk of fog increases due to cold temperatures and high humidity. To ensure safe operations for aircraft, airports implement Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) when visibility drops below 600 meters.
Pilots and air traffic controllers face challenges in foggy conditions as they rely on maps and limited communications due to poor visibility. Pilots must reach directional points further than usual during takeoff for maximum distance and safety. Entering the runway in low visibility conditions can be dangerous, so pilots prioritize contacting ATC for guidance.
For takeoff, each aircraft has a minimum visibility requirement that must be met at all points on the runway before the aircraft can begin its roll. The runway must remain clear until the plane is in the air to prevent interference with other aircraft. Landing in fog requires the use of autopilot mode and a landing support system to connect with the aircraft during the approach.
The Arcata-Eureka Airport in California is known as one of the foggiest airports in the world, used by the US Navy for fog testing and all-weather training. Fog can significantly impact flight operations, requiring special procedures and careful monitoring by pilots and ATC to ensure safe takeoff and landing in low visibility conditions.
In conclusion, foggy conditions pose significant challenges for pilots and air traffic controllers at airports worldwide, especially during winter months when cold temperatures and high humidity increase the risk of fog. To ensure safe operations for aircraft, LVPs are implemented when visibility drops below 600 meters. Additionally, pilots must meet minimum visibility requirements before taking off or landing on a runway while carefully monitoring their surroundings to avoid any interference with other aircraft or accidents caused by low visibility conditions.
