Can Pilots See Anything Outside Their Windows When Landing or Taking Off?

Ever wondered why airplanes have windows in the cockpit? It makes sense to have them, but what exactly do pilots see through these windows during takeoff and landing?

The Importance of Visibility

Windows in an airplane's cockpit are designed to provide pilots with a clear view of the runway and surrounding area during takeoff and landing. This is essential for several reasons:

To ensure accurate navigation and alignment with the runway. To help with taxiing to and from the gate. To assist in lining up the aircraft on the runway for takeoff or landing. To monitor the approach or departure process.

Even in conditions where the cockpit instruments are fully operable, pilots still need to see the ground markings to ensure they are aligned correctly for taxiing and landing.

Windows in the Cockpit

Upon closer inspection, you'll notice that the cockpit of most commercial airliners has large windows in the front and to the sides. This design is intentional and serves multiple purposes:

The front windows: These are the main cockpit windows and provide a clear view of the runway ahead. Side windows: These windows offer a wider view of the surrounding area, including the runway and approach lights. Direct vision windows: These small windows are positioned above or below the main windows, allowing pilots to see directly outside the main cockpit area.

Video Evidence

Several YouTube videos demonstrate the critical role of visibility in an aircraft's cockpit. For example, a video of Lufthansa pilots landing an MD11 cargo aircraft at Quito provides a striking visual of the challenges faced by pilots in poor visibility conditions. Although Quito's airport has since been upgraded, the video still highlights the importance of having clear visibility for pilots.

Exceptions to Clear Visibility

While most aircraft are designed to provide good to excellent visibility, there are some exceptional cases.

Haunted Spirit of St Louis: This vintage aircraft had nearly zero outside visibility, yet it was safely flown and landed. Despite this, it continued to operate successfully. Tail-draggers: Some aircraft, like the Vought F4U Corsair, were infamous for their poor takeoff and landing visibility due to their tail design.

These aircraft still managed to complete flights, but the visibility issues present unique challenges for the pilots.

The Role of Technology

Modern aircraft often rely on advanced avionics and automation systems to assist with landing and takeoff. However, having visibility remains a critical safety factor. Pilots cannot fully trust the computers to land the plane without being able to see the runway.

Procedures and Regulations

By International Law, all pilots and co-pilots must close their eyes during takeoff and landing. This practice is for your own safety and, ironically, is actually a form of maintaining situational awareness. Pilots must trust the aircraft's systems and visual cues, even if it means temporarily closing their eyes.

This regulation ensures that pilots stay alert and responsive to any visual signals that may be critical for a safe landing or takeoff. While it may seem counterintuitive, this practice helps pilots stay vigilant and prepared for any visual cues that may arise.

Conclusion

Although technology plays a vital role in modern aviation, the visibility through cockpit windows remains a crucial factor in the safe operation of aircraft. Pilots rely on these windows to ensure they can safely navigate and land their aircraft, even in challenging conditions. The combination of advanced technology and clear cockpit visibility is what allows modern airlines to safely transport millions of passengers each year.