How extreme would the weather have to be to delay a plane from flying?

Question

I am just wondering what kind of weather stops a plane from flying? does snow stop them? if it raining, do they still fly? this is for my school research.

Answer 1

Snow and icy conditions can definitely delay planes, how much snow depends on if the runways are clear. High winds can close airports. Rain won't generally cause problems however lightning can delay planes. When lightning strikes within several miles of the airport the ground crews are not allowed outside for a period of time for safety reasons. Lighting does not pose a major threat to the planes themselves.

Answer 2

Honestly it does not take much to delay a plane from flying. Usually it is not specifically the weather, but the back up effect that happens. I worked at SFO for 5 years. When light fog or low clouds rolled in, incoming flights would have to circle in order to land. Since they were late, the planes to follow them would have to be delayed in taking off. Most of these planes need to get to SFO to be turned around to depart to different locations. The outgoing flights would then be delayed by often an hour or more.

Answer 3

Planes fly without problem in rain. Thunderstorms can cause delays and cancellations, but its because of the wind, not rain. Even high wind without rain will cause delays and cancellations. Freezing rain and snow can cause problems because of water freezing on the plane. Airports do have de-icing machines, so planes can still fly, but it will cause serious delays.

Answer 4

the components and different "Acts of God" are unpredictable. some issues, like climate, are previous everyone's administration. this is greater advantageous to have a put off than an unsafe runway or worse...lots worse... Passengers substitute into annoyed and cranky and act as though the workers by some ability led to it...Noboby desires to be caught in a typhoon yet enable's all attempt to not take it out on the workers. provide them a break. All i'm able to propose is to visual reveal unit the forecasts for the area previous on your departure. be sure to be sure your flight and examine for updates on the Airline's internet site. shop your important telephone touch numbers available. with a bit of luck you allowed your self it gradual beyond regulation between flight arrival and Criuse departure incase of put off. in basic terms a fool schedules them back to back...quite interior the wintry climate. you do not choose the greater hassle of lacking your connection. i'm hoping all of it works out...

Answer 5

It depends on the jet operator, pilots involved and the operating specifications of the operator. Here is an article I wrote last year on the subject: http://www.jets.com/Jets_UncompromisedSafetyJan.aspx

Answer 6

Wind and wind sheer is probably a major factor.

So is visiblity.