Johannesburg Airport - South Africa

Question

Why don't the large plains (mainly international flights) take off from Johannesburg, South Africa during the day - they only seem to take off at night.

I heard that the large plains aren't physically able to take off during the day - something about air pressure ...

Just wondering if anyone knows for sure?

Answer 1

Well I've only been there once and mine, a BA 747, took off during the day! Just checked, BA's flights to Heathow take off at 8pm and 9pm daily.

Answer 2

maybe the heat???

Answer 3

Probably more than one reason:

1. Planes travel the other way round during daytime, saving on parking time;

2. The air being cooler during the night, it is easier to take off, but is remains physically possible to take off during daytime;

3. It makes sense to travel by night, at reduced speed to save fuel, and arrive in Europe or the USA at the beginning of a workday.

Answer 4

The plains are stuck to the ground, usually held in place by grass roots.

Aeroplanes (planes) however, fly as directed.