Flights get delayed due to fog because it reduces visibility, which poses challenges for pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground operations. Fog can cause significant disruptions to flight schedules due to the challenges it presents in aviation operations. Here’s a breakdown of why flights get delayed during foggy conditions:
1. Reduced Visibility
- Takeoff and Landing Difficulties:
- Pilots rely on clear visibility to safely navigate runways during takeoff and landing. Dense fog limits their ability to see runway markings, lights, and other visual cues, increasing the risk of errors.
- Zero Visibility Scenarios:
- In cases of extreme fog where visibility drops below the required threshold (e.g., 75 meters for CAT III-B landing), even advanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) cannot support operations, leading to delays or cancellations.
2. Impact on Navigation and Ground Operations
- Runway Navigation Challenges:
While ILS assists during landing, it does not help with taxiing on the runway. Poor visibility during fog can make it harder for pilots to navigate safely between runways and gates. - Increased Spacing Between Flights:
To avoid collisions, air traffic control (ATC) increases the interval between aircraft landings and takeoffs during fog. This significantly reduces airport capacity, leading to delays.
3. Limitations of CAT III Systems
- CAT III Compliant Airports:
Only a few airports in India (e.g., Delhi, Lucknow, Jaipur, Bengaluru) are equipped with CAT III systems for low-visibility landings. Non-compliant flights or airports with older systems face longer disruptions. - Training Requirements:
Pilots must be trained for CAT III operations, and airlines need to ensure both the captain and co-pilot meet minimum experience thresholds. Limited availability of trained crews can further complicate operations.
4. Logistical and Infrastructure Challenges
- Congestion at Airports:
Reduced runway capacity during fog causes congestion, creating a cascading effect on flights scheduled later in the day. - Diverted Flights:
Flights unable to land at fog-affected airports are often diverted to alternate locations, adding to passenger inconvenience and operational complexities.
5. Passenger Management and Communication Issues
- Delays in Updates:
Airlines struggle to provide timely updates to passengers about delays or revised schedules, often leading to frustration among travelers stranded at airports. - Insufficient Facilities:
Many airports lack sufficient amenities or space to accommodate large numbers of passengers during prolonged delays.
6. Regional and Seasonal Impact
- Frequent Disruptions in Winter:
Fog is a recurring issue in northern and northeastern India during winter months, severely impacting operations at around 40 airports, including major hubs like Delhi. - Wider Operational Impact:
Dense fog at key hubs like Delhi affects flight schedules nationwide due to delayed departures, crew availability, and aircraft rotations.
What are the efforts to address Fog-Related delays?
- Upgrading Airport Infrastructure:
Airports are working to improve ILS systems and train more pilots for CAT III landings. - Enhanced Communication:
Airlines are adopting protocols to keep passengers better informed during disruptions. - Strategic Diversions:
During prolonged disruptions, flights are diverted to nearby airports with better visibility to minimize delays.
Despite these efforts, fog remains a natural challenge that significantly impacts aviation operations, especially during peak winter months.
