What type of data is crucial for pilots to have in poor visibility situations?

In poor visibility situations, having access to terrain and obstacle data is crucial for pilots because it directly relates to safety during flight operations. This type of data provides pilots with essential information about the landscape below them, including mountains, buildings, and other potentially hazardous obstacles. When visibility is compromised, pilots rely heavily on instruments and navigation aids, making it vital to know the position of obstacles to avoid collisions and ensure safe navigation.

Flight plan specifics might not address the immediate dangers presented by low visibility, while weather patterns historical data can inform general conditions but does not aid in real-time navigation. Load capacity statistics could inform about aircraft performance but do not contribute to navigation safety in poor visibility environments. Thus, terrain and obstacle data becomes the most critical information for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring a safe flight path in challenging visibility conditions.