Understanding Impact of Weather on Indian Aviation

India's aviation sector presents unique challenges for pilots due to diverse weather conditions that can significantly impact flight operations. As a trainee pilot, understanding how various weather phenomena affect aviation is crucial for ensuring flight safety, efficient decision-making, and compliance with operational procedures.

1. Monsoon Season and Its Challenges India experiences an intense monsoon season from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the country. As a pilot, monsoon-related challenges you may face include:

• Low Visibility: Torrential rains often reduce visibility below standard minima, requiring reliance on Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and adherence to alternate procedures.

  
  

• Waterlogging on Runways: Runway contamination due to standing water can increase landing distances and the risk of hydroplaning. Pilots must be proficient in wet runway operations and braking action assessments. This depends on your aircraft type, weight, runway length, landing distance required, learning the difference between a positive and hard landing, etc.

  
  

• Turbulence and Wind Shear: Unstable atmospheric conditions lead to sudden changes in wind speed and direction, demanding a strong understanding of wind shear recognition and recovery techniques.

  
  

To mitigate these issues, trainee pilots should focus on weather briefing interpretation and pre-flight planning strategies.

2. Fog and Winter Weather Disruptions During winter months, particularly from December to February, northern India experiences dense fog, significantly affecting operations. Key considerations for pilots include:

• Flight Delays and Diversions: Fog can lead to extended holding patterns and diversions. Trainees should be well-versed in fuel management strategies.

  
  

• Weather at Alternate Airports: Understanding METAR and TAF of your destination and alternate airports will help you make the best decision of departing and landing especially during monsoon conditions. Learning to carry fuel to reach your alternate in case landing at your planned destination airport is not feasible is important.

  
  

• Low Visibility Procedures (LVP): Familiarity with CAT II/III ILS operations is essential for safe landings in dense fog conditions for commercial flying.

  
  

Pilots should regularly practice simulator scenarios involving low-visibility approaches and alternate planning.

3. Thunderstorms and Convective Activity Thunderstorms pose significant risks to flight safety, particularly during pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons. Key threats include:

• Lightning Strikes: While modern aircraft are designed to withstand lightning, pilots should follow proper protocols in storm penetration scenarios. Check your static wicks before the flight and understand its importance for flight safety.

  
  

• Wind Shear: Pilots must recognize microburst indications and execute go-arounds or escape maneuvers effectively.

  
  

• Turbulence Management: Thunderstorm-related turbulence can impact passenger comfort and structural integrity, requiring adherence to turbulence penetration speeds specific to your aircraft type.

  
  

Regular weather radar interpretation practice and cross-checking meteorological reports are vital skills for avoiding convective weather systems.

4. Cyclones and Their Impact on Coastal Airports India's coastal regions are prone to cyclones, requiring pilots to anticipate operational challenges such as:

• Airport Closures and Diversion Planning: Understanding cyclone movement and planning alternate routes are critical skills for pilots. It is always suggested to fly into the wind as the wind pushes the storm away, flying in the same direction as the wind is pushing the storm in poses no benefit to Pilots.

  
  

• Pre-Flight Briefing and Risk Assessment: Assessing METARs, TAFs, and NOTAMs related to cyclonic activity helps in informed decision-making.

  
  

Trainee pilots should emphasize effective CRM (Crew Resource Management) when dealing with rapidly changing weather conditions.

5. Heatwaves and Their Effect on Aircraft Performance Extreme summer temperatures, particularly in cities like Delhi and Jaipur, can affect aircraft performance in the following ways:

• Reduced Air Density: Hot air reduces lift, requiring longer takeoff distances and higher speeds. Pilots must adjust takeoff performance calculations accordingly and be aware of how much runway distance is available.

  
  

• Increased Engine Temperatures: High ambient temperatures can lead to increased engine operating temperatures, potentially causing overheating. This can result in reduced engine efficiency, increased wear and tear, and a higher likelihood of exceeding operational temperature limits. Pilots must closely monitor engine parameters, use correct climb power settings, and ensure efficient cooling by managing airflow and avoiding prolonged ground operations in high temperatures.

  
  

Familiarity with aircraft performance charts and adherence to weight and balance limitations are crucial for safe operations in hot weather.

Conclusion

For trainee pilots, a comprehensive understanding of weather phenomena is essential for safe and efficient flight operations in India. By leveraging meteorological resources, adhering to standard operating procedures, and continuously enhancing weather-related knowledge, pilots can navigate diverse weather challenges with confidence and competence.