ELi5 Why are planes grounded when there is fog but they can fly through fog and clouds.

Question

I dont understand when they have control towers and such advanced technology why fog can ground planes. Not much is done by eyesight now surely?

In: Technology

Answer 1

So if the question is why can’t a plane take off in fog but fly in fog… I think the answer is a plane CAN do both. The issue is if something goes wrong with take-off the pilot will not have an easy time turning around and trying to land. Also it may be hard for a pilot to see the way to the runway without bumping into things or the end of the runway if they have to abort take off. Like said in a different reply- special airports/licensed pilots and types of aircraft can do take offs and landings in fog- but not usually with people on board (Like many FedEx planes and pilots can take off and land in almost anything). I think extra caution is taken when there are a lot of souls onboard.