Have you ever wondered how planes handle extreme weather? As it is not subject to human control, adverse weather conditions during flights can be unpredictable and dangerous to passengers and aircraft.
However, engineering and advanced technologies can combat the threat posed by strong winds, thunderstorms, icy environments, and extreme heat and cold. Through constant research, the aviation industry is improving systems that detect, withstand, and avoid adverse flight conditions, allowing aircraft to fly in even the most difficult situations.
Handling Strong Winds
When challenged by strong winds, pilots must perform demanding manoeuvres to avoid losing their way. In a crosswind, landing becomes more difficult because the wind blows perpendicular to the plane’s trajectory. To prevent the aircraft from deflecting, pilots use side-slipping or angle the nose of the plane to the wind (a process known as crabbing). This also helps pilots to control the landing process and makes it safer.
Pilots are trained to execute these manoeuvres using simulation. Autopilot systems can also be utilised. They use sliding mode control technologies to increase landing performance in windy weather and maintain the aircraft’s stability during turbulence.
Flying During Thunderstorms
Onboard weather radar systems are specially designed to detect thunderstorms. They help pilots build a safe flight path by providing real-time data on precipitation intensity, storm cells and possible turbulence zones. They can also adjust the airspeed, altitude and trajectory of an aircraft. This helps to bypass hazardous areas, avoid high turbulence and minimise the impact of strong air flows during a storm.
Modern aeroplanes are designed to survive lightning as they are built using materials with conductive properties. They can securely direct electrical power over their surface and away from essential systems, protecting passengers and ensuring continued flight functions during challenging weather conditions.
Icy and Snowy Conditions
Ice buildup on planes poses serious risks, including changing airflow across the wings, limiting lift, and impairing engine efficiency. Ice can form on different parts of the aeroplane and threaten the safety of the flight. Luckily, there are various safety mechanisms which protect planes against ice.
For example, to prevent ice from forming, the surface of the plane’s wings is equipped with a heating system. The engines and fuselage do not freeze as a special protection system defends them against ice formation. Before taking off, the aircraft’s surface is sprayed with de-icing fluids to avoid ice accumulation during the early stages of the flight. Icephobic coatings are the newest way to prevent ice from sticking, protecting the plane from freezing conditions.
Extreme Temperature Changes
In extreme heat, it is harder to fly a plane because the air density changes during take-off and reduces lift force. To minimise possible dangers, engineers will adjust take-off procedures. For example, they may lengthen the runway or create composites that can bear temperature stress. However, in the future, the rise of global temperatures may further complicate the takeoff performance of aircraft, and further developments in engineering will be required.
Currently, aircraft design and engineering solutions allow planes to withstand sudden temperature changes. Extreme cold at high altitudes may affect the materials and performance of the engine, but serious complications rarely happen. The anti-icing measures and sophisticated insulation and heating systems maintain functionality and comfort to keep the plane safe.
Aviation technology continues to evolve, providing efficient and safe flights even in the most adverse weather.
Have you had moments when you were worried about weather conditions during a flight? Tell us about your experiences in the comments.
