When fog lowers visibility at Krakow-Balice, aircraft may hold, attempt an approach, or divert to Katowice depending on RVR readings and operational minima.
Why Flights from Krakow Are Redirected
Controllers and crews compare current RVR against required minima. If the lowest sensor value falls below limits, staying in a holding pattern risks fuel and schedule, so diverting to Katowice — often with better weather and lower minima — becomes the safer choice.
Drivers behind diversion decisions
- RVR below landing minima on touchdown, midpoint, or stop-end.
- Capacity reductions under Low Visibility Procedures leading to extended holding times.
- Fuel and duty constraints that make further holds impractical.
Fog, Minimum Visibility and Operational Restrictions
Fog in Krakow tightens approach minima and lowers the arrival/departure rate. Knowing Krakow Airport visibility and is there fog in Krakow helps predict whether flights will proceed or divert.
What crews evaluate
- Current and trend RVR plus ceiling, wind, and runway condition.
- ILS status, approach lighting, and any NOTAM-driven restrictions.
- Alternate fuel, holding time remaining, and slot availability at alternates.
Typical Diversion Scenarios to Katowice
Common patterns include early-morning radiation fog that drops RVR below minima, evening advection fog that arrives quickly, or reduced ILS capability during maintenance. In these cases, multiple flights may divert in sequence to Katowice until visibility improves.
Passenger checklist
- Track METAR/SPECI updates and airline alerts about diversions.
- Monitor fog at Krakow Airport to understand local triggers.
- Prepare contingency transport if dense fog persists through your departure window.
Check the live Krakow flight status for real-time departures, arrivals, and diversion notices.