Planes routinely fly through clouds. The experience varies depending on the type of cloud. While flying through most clouds presents no significant danger, certain cloud types, like thunderstorms, pose risks.
Cloud Density and Turbulence
The density of clouds differs from the surrounding air. This difference can cause turbulence. [Source: Why You Experience Turbulence When Flying Through A Cloud] Mild turbulence is common, but severe turbulence is rare and usually associated with specific cloud types.
Cloud Type Matters
- Non-threatening clouds: Flying through stratus, cumulus (excluding towering cumulus), and cirrus clouds is generally uneventful. The plane might get wet, similar to driving through fog. [Source: *What happens to an airplane when it flies through a cloud? Does it ...]
- Dangerous clouds: Thunderstorms (cumulonimbus clouds) are dangerous due to severe turbulence, heavy precipitation, hail, lightning, and icing. Pilots actively avoid these. [Source: How risky is it for a plane to fly into a cumulonibus cloud?] [Source: Flying Through Clouds – Why Are They So Dangerous?] [Source: What happens if you fly a plane through a cloud?]
High-Speed Flight
Flying through clouds at high speeds is standard for instrument-equipped aircraft and doesn't inherently affect the plane. [Source: Are airplanes allowed to fly through clouds or are they only allowed ...]
Ice Accumulation
Ice can build up on aircraft surfaces, especially wings and engines, which impacts fuel efficiency and safety. This is a significant concern, primarily in clouds with supercooled water droplets. [Source: What happens when aircraft fly through clouds?]
Pilot Skill and Aircraft Systems
A pilot's skill significantly affects how safely they navigate clouds, particularly in challenging conditions. Modern aircraft with advanced systems generally mitigate many risks associated with cloud penetration. [Source: Question to Pilots : dangerous vs safe clouds, how do you know]
In summary, while most cloud encounters are routine, pilots must be aware of potentially dangerous cloud types and employ appropriate safety measures.
