Fog can severely limit visibility, posing challenges for pilots and air traffic controllers during takeoff and landing procedures. When visibility drops below 600 meters at an airport, Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) are implemented to ensure safe aircraft movement on the airfield. Running on the runway in fog is particularly challenging as pilots and ATC must rely on maps and limited communications, requiring the aircraft to reach farther distances before takeoff compared to normal conditions.
At Arcata-Eureka Airport in California, one of the foggiest airports in the world, US Navy tests fog reduction systems and conducts all-weather training. This highlights the challenges that fog presents in aviation operations and the importance of following specific procedures for safe takeoffs and landings in these conditions.
During takeoffs and landings, specific visibility criteria must be met at various points on the runway. The runway needs to be clear until the aircraft is safely airborne or landed. Autopilot is often used for landing in low visibility areas, with airports needing landing support systems for safe landings in thick fog.
Fog at airports can disrupt airline operations globally each year, leading to thousands of flight delays and cancellations. Winter is a particularly high-risk season due to cold temperatures and high humidity creating ideal conditions for fog formation. Therefore, it is essential to have specific procedures in place for safe takeoffs and landings during low visibility conditions.
In conclusion, dense fog can severely limit visibility, impacting pilots and air traffic controllers during takeoff and landing procedures. However, with proper procedures such as LVP implementation and use of autopilot along with landing support systems, safe operations can still be carried out even under challenging weather conditions.