Question

How does snow affect the operation of airports?

Answer 1

Snow can have a significant impact on airport operations in several ways:

1. Reduced visibility: Snowfall can reduce visibility, leading to delays in takeoffs and landings.
2. Snow removal: Airports need to clear snow from runways, taxiways, and gates to ensure safe aircraft movement, which can cause delays.
3. De-icing: Aircraft need to be de-iced before takeoff to prevent ice buildup on wings, which can affect aerodynamics. This process can also cause delays.
4. Flight cancellations: Severe snowstorms can lead to flight cancellations as airlines prioritize passenger safety. Overall, snow can disrupt airport schedules, cause delays, and increase the workload for airport staff during winter weather conditions.