Can you fly a private jet in the fog
This morning’s fog has caused cancellations and delays to scheduled airlines from London Heathrow and London City Airport (which on a non-foggy day has one of the world’s most stunning airport approaches).
Private jets are available to fly at short notice. Call +44 (0) 1747 642 777 (24 hours).
All aircraft, including private jets, are affected by fog and poor visibility. Although many commercial aircraft are equipped with auto-land autopilots (that can land the aircraft in zero visibility), it is on the ground and during the take off phase that most of the Air Traffic Delays occur.
When the visibility at an airport drops below 1,500m (described by pilots and airports as RVR – Runway Visual Range) the airport enforces Low Visibility Procedures (LVPs). During LVPs, Air Traffic will reduce the number of aircraft taxing and taking off to prevent accidents and incidents occurring.
WHAT IS CAUSING THE FOG IN EUROPE?
There are many different causes of fog. The fog in Europe today is described by meteorologists as Radiation Fog.
Radiation fog occurs at night when the following combination of weather conditions are present: Clear skies, low temperatures, high dew points with light or calm winds.
Often these conditions are associated with high pressure systems in winter. When the morning temperature increases and the winds pick up, radiation fog is cleared to leave beautiful flying conditions.
HOW PRIVATE JETS FLY IN FOGGY CONDITIONS
Just as in heavy snow and other unforeseen weather conditions, the flexibility of private jet charter is an advantage in foggy weather. A private jet charter flight plan allows for last minute changes of plan, finding gaps in the fog and re-routing the flight accordingly – not an option open to airlines.
For example while visibility might be 100 metres at London Luton airport, bit could be 4km at London Northolt. So by switching a flight departure from Luton to Northolt, the customer can depart with very minimal delays.
As the fog clears huge backlogs for airlines will mean disruption can continue for the next day or two. With many aircraft now out of position, passengers are recommended to contact their airlines for further information before leaving home.
In foggy conditions, the advantages of private jet charter become very clear!
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