Next time your flight is delayed due to a storm, instead of getting annoyed, consider yourself lucky. According to a captain of a Dreamliner aircraft, severe storms can render the aircraft “unflyable.” The turbulence experienced in a storm can lead to injuries for passengers and crew, and in extreme cases, it can even result in the loss of control or structural failure of the aircraft.
Pilot Rick James, who runs pilotteacher.com, explains that storms can create strong windshears with rapidly changing wind directions. If an aircraft takes off and the wind suddenly shifts, it can cause the aircraft to stall. Additionally, storms can contain super-cooled water droplets that freeze upon impact with the aircraft, leading to dangerous ice build-up. This ice adds weight to the aircraft, affects airflow, and can even freeze the fuel and flight controls.
It’s no wonder that storms are the adverse weather condition most likely to cause diversions, according to Captain Steve Allright, who leads British Airways’ Flying with Confidence course. The rapidly changing wind conditions, lightning, and heavy precipitation make it highly unlikely for flight crew to take off or land during a thunderstorm.
Fortunately, commercial aircraft are equipped with high-technology weather radar that can detect precipitation, allowing flight crew to identify thunderstorms from over 100 miles away and take necessary action to avoid them. While it is possible to fly through a thunderstorm safely, it can be a turbulent and uncomfortable experience for passengers. Captain Doug Morris of Air Canada emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and visually scanning the sky for storms, especially at night. Finding the best path to navigate around these meteorological challenges is crucial for safe flying.
In conclusion, pilots are keen to fly around storms due to the potential dangers associated with severe turbulence, ice build-up, and changing wind conditions. So, the next time your flight is delayed due to a storm, remember that your safety is the priority, and the pilots’ decision to avoid the storm is for your well-being.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
