Snow can cause major disruptions in air traffic, much like it does on the roads. Its presence at airports and on runways can have serious consequences for the safety of air operations. When significant snowfall occurs, specific procedures are triggered to minimise risks and ensure aircraft can operate safely.
When runways are covered in snow, taxiing, takeoff, and landing can become impossible. Takeoffs, landings, and taxiing can be hazardous if the runways are covered in snow or ice. This affects the friction required by the aircraft's wheels to maintain control during these critical maneuvers.
When significant snowfall is detected, airports activate special protocols. The first step is to assess the runway condition and determine whether operations remain viable. The maximum snow thickness values that can accumulate without compromising safety are monitored. Based on this assessment, the necessary cleaning methods are defined, such as the use of cleaning vehicles and de-icing products.
This process also includes careful planning of cleaning vehicle routes to avoid obstructing other airport operations. Specific points are designated where waste generated will accumulate to prevent it from being spread back onto the runways.
Throughout history, several snowfalls have had a significant impact on air operations:
The 2010 Snowstorm in the UK: In December 2010, a severe snowstorm affected much of Europe, bringing the airports in the UK, particularly in London, to a standstill. Heathrow Airport experienced over 24 hours of operational disruptions, resulting in thousands of flight cancellations and many passengers stranded.
The January 2021 Snowstorm in Madrid: The Filomena storm, which affected much of the Iberian Peninsula, left heavy snow in Madrid, with accumulations of up to 50 cm in some areas. Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport experienced significant issues, including runway closures and the cancellation of over 700 flights due to snow and ice accumulation on the runways.
The January 2010 Snowstorm in France: In January 2010, a cold wave accompanied by heavy snowfall paralysed air traffic in several French cities. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport was one of the worst affected, with numerous flight cancellations and widespread chaos in the terminals. Operations were disrupted for over 48 hours, and thousands of passengers were stranded due to snow accumulation and the challenging conditions for clearing the runways.
As weather conditions worsen, communication between ground operations, airlines, pilots, and air traffic controllers becomes even more critical. In these cases, airport authorities provide updates on runway conditions and weather forecasts. Depending on the severity of the snowfall, flight delays or even operational suspensions may occur to ensure flights are safe.
Air traffic controllers’ work also becomes more intense. With increased waiting times and possible route changes, air traffic must be managed with greater care, always prioritising the safety of aircraft. This also implies a heavier workload for pilots, who must take extra precautions while waiting for conditions to improve.
Airports are prepared for these contingencies with winter plans. These plans include detailed procedures to address any eventuality caused by snow. Despite these preparations, the safest option when conditions are adverse is to keep aircraft grounded. Waiting for the storm to subside is often the most reasonable and safe option, as any manoeuvre on a snow- or ice-covered runway poses an unnecessary risk.
Before restarting operations, many aircraft will likely need to undergo de-icing procedures to remove accumulated snow from their surfaces. This process is essential to ensure aircraft maintain the necessary characteristics for safe flight.
Snowfalls can disrupt normal airport operations, but thanks to established procedures and the preparation of airport authorities, the impacts of snowfalls can be minimised. In any case, safety always comes first. Air operations are only resumed when it is safe to do so, with de-iced aircraft and properly cleared runways.
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