How can weather impact air traffic operations?

Weather can significantly impact air traffic operations in various ways, making the choice that emphasizes its influence on visibility, flight paths, and safety measures the most accurate.

When weather conditions are poor, such as in instances of fog, heavy rain, snow, or thunderstorms, visibility can be dramatically reduced. This can affect pilots' ability to see the runway during takeoff and landing, potentially requiring Air Traffic Control (ATC) to implement alternative approaches or delays until conditions improve.

Moreover, certain weather phenomena, like turbulence, wind shear, and severe thunderstorms, may necessitate adjustments to flight paths to ensure safety. Aircraft may need to fly at different altitudes or reroute entirely to avoid hazardous conditions. This kind of flexibility in operations is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in air traffic management.

Additionally, adverse weather can lead to the need for enhanced safety measures, such as increased separation between aircraft or the implementation of specific landing and departure procedures that take weather conditions into account.

Overall, the intricate relationship between weather and air traffic operations encompasses multiple aspects beyond just landing, therefore justifying the assertion that weather can influence a wide range of operational parameters.