Originally Posted by
frequentflyer2
I tried this query on airlines, airports and routes but I think I was using the wrong forum so I'll try passengers and slf instead.
Recently, during particularly stormy weather one early morning in Belfast I had a look at BHD departures and arrivals on the airport's website.
The first bmi flight from Heathrow (an A320) had been diverted to BFS but the Aer Arran ATR from Cork landed more or less as scheduled.
Some Flybe services operated by Dash 8-400's were cancelled but others continued to operate.
This is probably an anorakish thing to ask but why would an A320 have more difficulty getting in to BHD in gales than an ATR?
Why were Dash 8-400's able to operate while others remained on the ground?
Is it really up to each individual pilot to make the decision?
It was very windy but as a passenger I've landed and taken off at BHD in similar conditions.
The main factor is pilot's discretion. If the pilot feels he's out of his limits, or he's had to perform a missed approach/went around a couple of times to no avail the diversion may be considered.
Also company SOP's may come into play... although I'm not sure of this since I'm not an airline pilot (airline jocks feel free to correct me on this one if I'm wrong).
Cheers
Smithy