Flying Through Bad Weather
Have you ever wondered if it's safe to fly through a thunderstorm? Or whether planes can fly through the eye of a hurricane? Find out everything you need to know about the safety of flying through bad weather here.
Flying through Storms and Hurricanes
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Flying Through Thunderstorms
Can planes fly through Thunderstorms?
If you're flying through the air and you see lightning strike out of the window, it might seem scary. It's important to remember that all aircraft are built to withstand bad weather and turbulence. Aircraft are required to meet safety thresholds provided by the Federal Aviation Administration. They are the US equivalent of the Civil Aviation Authority in the UK. For this reason, flying through a thunderstorm is generally safe.
In the case of extreme weather, air traffic controllers will always direct aircraft above or around severe thunderstorms. This is to avoid uncomfortable turbulence or any damage being done to the aircraft. Remember that your plane will never be directed to fly through a severe storm.
If you are nervous about flying, here is a comforting fact! On July 20th 2024, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of zero domestic airliner crashes caused by a thunderstorm downburst.
Flying Through Hurricanes
Can planes fly through hurricanes?
Hurricanes differ from thunderstorms in that they often occur closer to the ground. For this reason, planes are sometimes able to fly over hurricanes rather than through or around them. While it's possible for planes to fly through the eye of a hurricane, pilots are not trained to do so as it can be risky. Some scientific organisations may do so, for research purposes. One example is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. However, they will never use a commercial aircraft.
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FAQs
Do flights get cancelled due to a hurricane?
Yes, hurricanes will most likely postpone or cancel your flight for safety reasons and the risk it can cause to the plane and passengers if travelling through the storm.
Does lightning strike a plane?
Lightning can strike a plane when travelling through or near a storm, however, you'll still remain safe when in the air. The aircraft are designed to withstand lightning strikes and the electric current travels alongside the aluminium frame.
How to deal with turbulence in a storm?
Turbulence can be frightening. However, the reality is that turbulence is no cause for concern! It’s a common part of flying that many people experience each day. Even when it’s at its most severe, turbulence is rarely dangerous. Check out our guide on overcoming a fear of turbulence to help you put your mind at rest and enjoy your journey!
Can you fly through a tropical storm?
Yes, you can fly through a tropical storm safely, however, pilots may decide to fly above or avoid them completely so as to avoid an uncomfortable journey for their passengers. Flying through a tropical storm in some cases will mean turbulence, discomfort and possible damage to the plane.
Is it safe to fly through a rainstorm?
All planes are designed to fly through thunderstorms and have to comply with safety regulations. A rainstorm is unlikely to cause damage to the aircraft. The only danger of flying during bad weather is the risk of freezing rain, but in this case, your plane will most likely be delayed until the storm passes.
What happens if a plane is struck by lightning?
Just as car passengers are protected by the vehicle's metal frame during a lightning strike, plane passengers to are unlikely to be in danger from lightning bolts when flying during a storm. The electric current will travel alongside the aluminium frame on the outside of the plane and exit at the tail, meanwhile, the passengers inside are well-protected. Although a lightning strike is unlikely to cause damage to an aircraft, airlines may choose to ground the aircraft in order to carry out checks before returning it to service.
What is it like flying through a storm?
Flying through a thunderstorm can sometimes be unsettling as windy storms and jetstreams increase flight turbulence. This may cause the plane to jump about and feel rather uncomfortable, but the reality is that flying in particularly windy conditions is generally safe. It's important to know that pilots will not fly in dangerous weather conditions and that your plane will always be directed around or above dangerous storms and bad weather.
Can you fly through a hailstorm?
Hailstorms will generally cause planes to be grounded and diverted as hail can cause damage to the aircraft's wings and frames. For this reason, flights will normally be grounded or rerouted to avoid hailstorms.
What happens when your flight is cancelled due to bad weather?
If your flight is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions then you will normally be booked onto the next available departing flight. You may also be able to request a refund but this will depend on the policy of the individual airline.
Tips for Flying Through Stormy Weather
If you are anxious about flying through storms, here are some tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible:
Stay Calm: It's natural to feel anxious, but try to remain calm. The pilots are trained to handle these situations.
Follow Cabin Crew Instructions: Listen carefully to the cabin crew and follow their instructions. They'll provide guidance on securing personal items and preparing for turbulence.
Fasten Your Seatbelt: Always keep your seatbelt fastened when seated, even when you're not in turbulence.
Avoid Walking Around: During turbulence, it's best to stay seated to avoid injuries from falling or being thrown around the cabin.
What are the chances of cancellation or delay?
The chance of your flight getting cancelled due to bad weather depends on the severity of the weather event, as well as its relative location on your route. If the storm is circling over your departing or arriving airport, then it is most likely to affect the validity of your flight. If the storm is elsewhere on your route, then it is still likely to cause delays, but might not result in outright cancellation.
Is flying in hurricanes and thunderstorms safe?
Flying through hurricanes and thunderstorms is safe. If your plane is going to fly in a region where there is an active hurricane or thunderstorm, then it means that highly trained operators and pilots have decided that it is safe. These professionals will not give the all-clear for a plane to fly unless total safety is assured.