Why Are Some Flights Not Cancelled During Bad Weather?

Why some flights are not cancelled during bad weather? Aircraft limitations and adverse weather operations explained.

Why Are Some Flights Not Cancelled During Bad Weather?
Photo by Josh Seff / Unsplash

Have you ever wondered why, even during heavy winds and bad weather conditions, not all flights get cancelled?

As an airline pilot explains, there are numerous factors that come into play.

Different Aircraft Variants Have Different Crosswind Limits

One of the main reasons only a fraction of flights are cancelled during bad weather is that different aircraft variants have varying crosswind limits.

Some airplanes can still operate safely in high winds, while others may not be equipped to do so.

Varying Crosswind Limits Among Airlines

Moreover, the same aircraft variants can have different crosswind limits between different operators and airlines, meaning that while one airline might be able to navigate through strong winds, another might have to ground their planes.

Diverse Stable Approach Criteria

Different operators and airlines have diverse stable approach criteria and various restrictions on contaminated runway operations and adverse weather operations, impacting the decision-making process during severe weather conditions.

Airport Facilities and Weather Conditions

Airport facilities play a crucial role in flight cancellations.

Intense snow and severe icing can severely impact flight operations.

Additionally, the capability of deicing providers to handle all planes simultaneously during adverse weather impacts the number of flights that can take off.

Tailored Decision-Making for Each Flight

Strong winds and adverse weather conditions can affect each flight differently.

While aircraft may have certain limits, every flight presents its unique circumstances, which pilots must assess before deciding whether to proceed with takeoff amidst adverse weather conditions.

It's important to note that strong winds and weather conditions can affect each flight differently.

While aircraft may have certain limits, every flight presents its unique circumstances, which pilots must assess before deciding whether to proceed with takeoff amidst adverse weather conditions.