Last year I read in a major aviation publication that lifting off in zero-zero conditions was one of the riskiest and dumbest decisions in all of flying. In late October 2014, I attended the annual convention of a major flying club, where I heard basically that same conversation and conclusion. If I had any hair on my shiny bald head, I would pull it out in frustration.
The article challenges the widespread, uncritical condemnation of low-visibility (zero-zero) takeoffs by general aviation pilots.
It argues that from 200 feet above ground level (AGL) and higher, the operational risks and conditions of a low-visibility takeoff are effectively identical to those of a missed approach in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
Consequently, pilots should avoid applying a double standard in risk assessment, advocating instead for careful, individual analysis of aviation risks rather than relying on unexamined platitudes or universal prohibitions.
Last year I read in a major aviation publication that lifting off in zero-zero conditions was one of the riskiest and dumbest decisions in all of flying. In late October 2014, I attended the annual convention of a major flying club, where I heard basically that same conversation and conclusion. If I had any hair on my shiny bald head, I would pull it out in frustration.
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