Government Ask Pilots To 'Master' Low Visibility Landings

Beijing has become one of the smoggiest cities in the world, and the reduced visibility from thick smog has become an increasing factor in flight delays into the city.

In an effort to improve airlines' performance in the city, the Chinese government will require captains of flights to Beijing to "master" low-visibility landings, according to a report from the Associated Press.

Beginning January 1, pilots on flights to Beijing from other major cities will be required to learn to land using the assistance of auto-landing equipment in visibility of 1,315 feet (400 meters). An aviation official who was not authorized to speak to the media said that the Chinese government hopes to "reduce the impact of flights by severe natural conditions." Flight delays in Beijing are often officially blamed on "weather" rather than pollution.

Chinese airlines will make the final decision as to whether use auto-land technology in low visibility, according to the source. Many non-Chinese-flagged carriers already use the technology when making an approach into Beijing. China had not previously required low-visibility landing proficiency because of the cost involved for training, according to Shu Ping, dean of aviation safety at China Academy of Civil Aviation Science and Technology.

FMI: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_Aviation_Administration_of_China