Tourists are afraid of landing at this airport. Pilot reassures

Madeira is one of the favorite holiday destinations for Poles, although arriving on this beautiful island can arouse a lot of fear in tourists. Funchal Airport is considered one of the most dangerous in the world. It is located close to hills, and during final approach, gusts of wind are very strong. The short runway looks the most disturbing, which was extended after tragic accidents in the last century. It is also from this airport that many recordings of aircraft come, swaying in the wind, approaching for landing.

Are flights to Funchal safe? Pilot explains

Pilot Zbigniew Młotkowski, director of crew training at Lithuanian charter airline KlasJet, spoke to Euronews about landing at such airports. He noted that pilots are previously properly trained in such conditions, practicing on simulators. The simulations are as close to real circumstances as possible.

“The simulator provides detailed visualization of all natural and man-made features in the vicinity of the airport, preparing pilots for flying into a real airport,” he explains.

During the exercises, you can also activate the worsening weather conditions. Such visualization prepares pilots to safely perform flights even in very unfavorable weather.

In the document of NAV Portugal, the company managing the country’s air traffic, we also find specific requirements:

"To operate at Madeira Airport, the pilot-in-command must have completed there in the last six months:

• one landing and takeoff or,
• flight simulator training including landing and take-off on any runway, in simulated adverse weather conditions, or
• linear training flight to Madeira airport, including landing and take-off, assisted by a qualified instructor occupying the right seat."

Madeira Airport: It's Worth Being Prepared For

Are you planning your first trip to Madeira?

It’s worth remembering that more challenging airports, where weather is a significant safety factor, may also experience more frequent delays. Flight schedules are temporarily adjusted to avoid potentially dangerous conditions. Passengers can also expect to experience a “hold” while the plane waits in the air for the weather to improve, allowing for a safe landing and the beauty of Madeira.

Landing at Innsbruck airport is similarly demanding.

Read also: This island has the most beautiful airport in the world. It's not about Madeira Read also: Storms and tornadoes over the tourist country. Dozens of flights canceled