What factors might lead to weather-related flight cancellations?

Severe storms and low ceilings are significant meteorological factors that can lead to flight cancellations. When severe storms are present, they can create hazardous flying conditions such as strong winds, turbulence, lightning, and heavy precipitation that may not only hinder takeoff and landing but can also pose safety risks to the aircraft and its passengers. Low ceilings refer to overcast conditions with cloud bases at low altitudes, which can restrict visibility and make it difficult for pilots to safely conduct approaches or land at airports that do not have the appropriate instruments for such conditions.

In contrast, while the other options may influence operational decisions, they do not directly tie into weather-related cancellations. Pilot availability and navigation errors are more operational issues rather than atmospheric conditions. Similarly, while aircraft age and maintenance status can affect safety and operational capacity, they are not specifically weather-related concerns. Fuel shortages and crew limitations also relate less to weather and more to logistical and management challenges the airline may face. Therefore, the correct focus on weather as a determinative factor is clearly shown in the mention of severe storms and low ceilings.