When is tower visibility crucial for operations?

Tower visibility is critical for operations particularly when local surface visibility measures are unreliable because it provides an accurate assessment of conditions directly from the control tower's vantage point. This is essential for air traffic control and ground operations, as it ensures safety during takeoff, landing, and taxiing processes.

When local surface visibility is hindered by fog, rain, or other obstructions, reliance solely on those measurements can lead to errors in determining whether it is safe for aircraft to operate. Tower visibility allows controllers to see beyond the local surface conditions and make better-informed decisions regarding aircraft movements, helping to prevent accidents and ensuring smooth operations.

In contrast, low cloud coverage might affect operations, but it doesn't inherently make tower visibility more critical unless it influences the ability to see aircraft movements. Thunderstorms can create dangerous conditions, but the need for accurate visibility extends beyond just moments of inclement weather. Night operations may also present challenges, but visibility considerations are vital throughout the day and night whenever local visibility may be compromised.