VRB20G45 wrote:Just wondering Ken...can planes depart in below SAM conditions?
Yes, but subject to a number of conditions. The cloud base/vis can't be below the minimum takeoff criteria for that aircraft type, weight, number of pilots, runway lightings and markings, etc... and the cloud base/vis also can't be below the landing minima for that airport and aircraft if they're forced to return after an engine failure. For most airline aircraft and major airports, the minimum takeoff minima is cloud base down to ground and vis of 500m which means the weather has to get pretty crappy to prevent takeoffs.
It's pouring down here in Richmond now with the CBD almost totally obscured by low cloud and rain. Wouldn't be surprised to see more rain echoes going in different directions on radar later today/tomorrow as the lower level flow turns more SW'ly under the higher level NNW'lies.
P.S. Melbourne's CATIII ILS was only implemented in recent times... the crew has to be suitably qualified and the aircraft suitably equipped to be able to use its landing minima. Still a handy system in shocking weather though.