How does reduced visibility affect landing performance?

Operating an aircraft in reduced visibility conditions, such as fog or heavy rain, presents unique challenges that can indeed affect landing performance. When visibility is compromised, pilots often have to rely more heavily on instruments to assess their altitude, speed, and proximity to the runway. This reliance can lead to longer landing distances due to several factors.

Firstly, the need for increased caution during the approach may result in the pilot executing a shallower angle of descent or a smoother, more gradual touchdown to maintain safety. Additionally, reduced visibility can complicate the perception of height and distance, potentially leading to later decisions on when to flare the aircraft. The pilot may delay the landing, increasing the total distance required to stop once on the runway.

Furthermore, if insufficient visual references are available, a pilot may approach the landing with an increased approach speed. While this can help in maintaining control and reducing the risk of getting too low too soon, it also contributes to longer landing distances once on the ground because of the higher speed at touchdown, requiring longer stopping distances.

In summary, in conditions of reduced visibility, pilots may experience an increased landing distance due to altered approach techniques and the need for greater caution, making it crucial to account for these factors in pre-landing assessments and calculations