The science of landing planes in foggy weather
Technology
Why does fog lead to flight delays in modern, technologically superior airplanes?
(Web Desk) - Landing an aircraft in foggy weather presents a unique set of challenges that demand precise coordination, advanced technology, and a keen focus on safety.
Pilots and air traffic controllers collaborate closely to ensure a safe landing even when visibility is severely limited by dense fog.
One of the primary tools that comes of use in such situations is the Instrument Landing System (ILS).
The ILS is a ground-based radio navigation system that provides pilots with accurate information about their aircraft's position and alignment with the runway.
Comprising two main components, the localiser, and the glide slope, the ILS guides pilots along both horizontal and vertical axes, aiding them in maintaining the correct approach path during low-visibility conditions.
With the help of ILS systems, pilots are able to understand how their aircraft is positioned with respect to an airport runway without needing to physically see it.
The ILS will warn pilots in case their jets are not flying to meet the runway's centreline. The ILS will also warn pilots in case their jets are too low or too high and thus, at the risk of undershooting or overshooting the runway.
Both of these tasks performed by the Instrument Landing System are crucial in ensuring landing in cases where the pilots aren't able to see the runway clearly.
In addition to ILS, modern aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics and autopilot systems that enhance precision during foggy landings.
These systems, often coupled with radar altimeters, help maintain a stable descent and ensure the aircraft follows the designated glide path with minimal reliance on external visibility.
Despite these technological advancements, pilot skill remains a critical factor in executing a safe landing.
During foggy conditions, pilots rely heavily on their training and experience to make real-time decisions.
Enhanced focus and attention to detail are essential, as they navigate the complex web of information provided by cockpit instruments and communicate effectively with air traffic control.
Airports also play a pivotal role in facilitating safe landings during fog.
Adequate runway lighting, including centerline lights and runway edge lights, helps pilots maintain spatial awareness during the final stages of descent.
Moreover, advanced runway monitoring systems, such as Runway Visual Range (RVR) sensors, provide real-time information on visibility conditions, assisting air traffic controllers in making informed decisions about when to clear an aircraft for landing.
