By Deborah Yakub
For many passengers, few sights are more frightening than an aircraft flying through a thunderstorm.
One of the most common questions people ask is: What happens if lightning strikes a plane?
The answer may surprise you.
Modern commercial aircraft are designed to withstand lightning strikes. In fact, aircraft are struck by lightning from time to time without causing harm to passengers or crew.
Aircraft manufacturers incorporate special engineering features that allow the electrical current to travel safely along the exterior of the aircraft before exiting without affecting critical systems.
Pilots are also trained to avoid severe weather whenever possible, using weather radar and guidance from air traffic controllers to navigate around dangerous storm cells.
Before any aircraft enters service, it undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it can safely withstand lightning strikes and other weather-related challenges.
While a lightning strike may appear dramatic from the outside, modern aviation technology and safety standards make commercial air travel one of the safest forms of transportation.
The next time you see storm clouds from your window seat, remember that aircraft are built with safety in mind and are prepared to handle challenges posed by nature.
