@trig There are a set of sequential phases in each player turn. Certain things happens in each of these phases. The planes must land during the non-combat phase, and since the Carriers are not there - due to their placement in a later phase - the planes can not land. It’s as simple as that. No need to complicate things.
I have seen countless problems arise because people brought their G40 “assumptions” to GW36. Needless to say, it’s not a good idea.