What is the impact of dense smoke or fog on UAS operation?

Dense smoke or fog creates conditions that can significantly impair visual visibility for the remote pilot and any observers on the ground. When visibility is reduced, it becomes increasingly difficult for the operator to track the drone’s location, understand the surrounding environment, and safely navigate obstacles. This lack of visual acuity raises the risk of accidents, such as collisions with other aircraft, structures, or terrain.

Additionally, the impaired visibility can lead to challenges with maintaining situational awareness, which is crucial for safe UAS operations. It can prevent the operator from effectively judging distances and monitoring the drone's altitude and flight path. As a result, operating a UAS in such conditions increases the likelihood of mishaps, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations that restrict flight operations in poor visibility conditions.

The other options suggest benefits or neutrality in challenging visibility scenarios, which do not align with the practical realities of flying a UAS in dense smoke or fog.