In what scenario would pilots rely more heavily on a visual approach?

In a scenario where visibility is clear and sunny, pilots are more likely to rely on a visual approach because they can see the runway and its surroundings clearly. This situation allows pilots to utilize their visual cues to safely and efficiently navigate to the runway, evaluating distance, altitude, and approach trajectory without the need for instruments. Clear weather conditions provide the needed visual references that enhance situational awareness and enable pilots to execute landings visually.

On the contrary, during thunderstorms or in heavy fog conditions, pilots would depend more on instrument approaches due to reduced visibility and adverse weather, as visual navigation would be significantly compromised. Similarly, while taxiing on the ground, pilots do not rely on visual approaches; instead, they focus on ground navigation and following taxiway signs, which is not relevant in the context of an approach to landing.