Is visibility or ceiling controlling for whether or not we can shoot an approach?

Visibility is crucial when determining whether an approach can be executed successfully, especially in terms of safe landing and navigation. It refers to the distance that a pilot can see horizontal landmarks, runway lights, and navigational aids. Poor visibility can make it extremely challenging for pilots to identify their approach path, even if the ceiling is technically above the required minimums.

In many aviation operations, visibility directly affects pilot decision-making and safety protocols. For instance, if the visibility is below the minimum required for a specific approach category (such as ILS, RNAV, or visual approaches), pilots may not be able to proceed with landing safely, regardless of the ceiling conditions.

While ceiling, which measures the height of the lowest layer of clouds or obstructions above the ground, is also important, visibility often takes precedence for safe approach and landing operations. Specific approaches have minimum visibility requirements, and lacking sufficient visibility can prompt pilots to divert or hold until conditions improve. Thus, visibility stands out as the determining factor for shooting an approach in many scenarios.