Dense fog forces several flight cancellations at Toronto Pearson, Billy Bishop airports
Posted November 25, 2022 2:23 pm.
Last Updated November 25, 2022 3:02 pm.
Normal operations have resumed at Toronto Pearson and Billy Bishop airports after several flights were delayed or cancelled outright due to dense fog that blanketed the GTA on Thursday.
Environment Canada issued fog advisories throughout the day, with parts of the GTA affected through the evening commute, while the warning was lifted in other regions earlier in the day.
Toronto’s Pearson International Airport said it reduced the flow of arriving flights to maintain safe operations amid the foggy conditions.
On Friday, a spokesperson said 8 per cent of Pearson’s flights were cancelled on Thursday as a result.
“We advise travellers to be mindful that this is the time of year when the weather in the GTA or at point of origin airports, particularly along the Eastern Seaboard, can impact operations,” Michelle Silva said.
“During winter weather, passengers may experience delays as we prioritize safety. We always advise passengers to check their flight schedule ahead of leaving for the airport.”
Many Porter Airlines flights cancelled due to fog
Billy Bishop Airport in downtown Toronto also warned travellers that fog and poor visibility could cause flight delays. On Friday, a spokesperson disclosed how many were affected by the conditions.
“We can confirm that regional weather affected approximately 86 arrivals and departures at Billy Bishop Airport on November 24,” said Jessica Pellerin.
“Our number one priority is ensuring the safety of passengers and staff, and at times, weather events such as fog and low visibility can impact flight operations at the airport.”
Pellerin said normal operations have since resumed at Billy Bishop Airport.
A dense patch of fog surrounds a forest. Photo: Pascal DeBrunner.
Fog has been prevalent in southern Ontario recently, though one weather specialist says it’s most common in the fall.
“We often witness big temperature swings between comfortable days and chilly nights during autumn. Temperatures drop in a hurry after sunset due to radiative cooling,” wrote The Weather Network’s Dennis Mersereau.
“We see advection fog all the time around the Greater Toronto Area as warm air flows over the cooler waters of Lake Ontario.”
Fog usually forms when it’s humid, and depending on the humidity and temperature, can form suddenly and then disappear just as quickly, known as “flash fog.”
Environment Canada says drivers should always slow down, watch for tail lights and be prepared to stop if visibility is reduced while driving under foggy conditions.
Warmer temperatures are expected in Toronto and much of the GTA this weekend, reaching an expected high of 9 C with sunny skies on Saturday. The rain will arrive overnight Sunday, with 10 mm likely in Toronto.
With files from The Canadian Press
