Travellers at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) are feeling the effects of a dense fog system smothering certain parts of Metro Vancouver.

Visibility dropped to near zero in several areas over the weekend, with Environment Canada extending a fog advisory expected to continue into Tuesday afternoon.

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YVR spokesperson Alyssa Smith says passenger safety is always top of mind during low-visibility weather events, which can mean delays for some flights.

“Weather [is] the most significant factor to our airport operations. When we are seeing this type of fog, we’re adjusting our operation accordingly to keep aircraft moving safely,” said Smith.

“Those decisions about whether flights are landing are really up to the discretion of the pilot, in terms of if they’re able to land in these conditions.” 

1130 NewsRadio Meteorologist Michael Kuss says the ceiling height of the fog is leading some pilots to reconsider their approach.

“The fog’s been relatively shallow, the top edges of the fog have been no higher than 400 to 500 metres. The airport’s at sea level, and that’s where the fog has been the heaviest,” said Kuss.

Smith says modern technology in cockpits and on the ground can help pilots when visibility is reduced.

“Here at YVR, we do have instrument landing systems and all of our operations are geared towards being able to keep fully operational, even during reduced or low- visibility conditions,” she said.

If they feel the landing will be unsafe, she says, pilots can divert to another airport such as Abbotsford (YXX).

Kuss says the fog has stayed clear of the Fraser Valley because of drier air blowing down from the Interior. 

YVR reminds travellers to double-check their flights for delays before arriving at the airport.