Generally, flying directly through thunderstorms is not safe, but it is also highly unlikely that a thunderstorm will bring a plane down. Planes are designed to withstand lightning strikes without suffering serious damage.
While thunder and lightning are less of a concern, rain, hail, and strong winds associated with thunderstorms present significant hazards.
Thunderstorm Dangers to Aircraft
While modern aircraft are built to withstand some degree of thunderstorm activity, the associated conditions can still be dangerous:
- Turbulence: Strong updrafts and downdrafts can cause severe turbulence, making it difficult to control the aircraft and potentially causing injury to passengers and crew.
- Hail: Hail can damage the aircraft's exterior, including the windshield, wings, and engines.
- Icing: Rapid cooling in thunderstorms can lead to ice accumulation on the wings, affecting lift and control.
- Wind Shear: Sudden changes in wind speed and direction can be particularly dangerous during takeoff and landing.
Aircraft and Lightning
According to the reference, it's very unlikely for thunderstorms to bring planes down, and planes are able to be struck by lightning without suffering serious damages. In fact, rain, hail, and wind are more dangerous to planes than thunder and lightning.
Why Pilots Avoid Thunderstorms
Despite the relative safety of lightning strikes, pilots actively avoid thunderstorms for these reasons:
- Passenger Comfort: Turbulence can cause extreme discomfort and anxiety for passengers.
- Aircraft Damage: While not catastrophic, hail and severe turbulence can cause damage that requires costly repairs.
- Safety Margins: Pilots prioritize safety and avoid unnecessary risks, especially considering the potentially unpredictable nature of thunderstorms.
