What illusion is caused by haze when approaching a runway?

When approaching a runway in conditions of haze, the visual perception is impacted significantly. Haze can distort the appearance of the runway, creating the illusion that it is situated further away than it actually is. This occurs because haze reduces clarity and contrast, making depth perception more difficult. As a result, pilots may misjudge their altitude and distance to the runway, leading to a higher likelihood of miscalculating their descent and approach. This phenomenon is critical for pilots to recognize, as it can affect their ability to execute a safe landing. Understanding how haze influences visual cues is essential for maintaining situational awareness during approach and landing phases.