Planes get struck by lightning surprisingly often! On average, commercial airliners are struck by lightning about once or twice a year.
While it might sound scary, aircraft are designed to withstand these strikes. The aluminum skin of the plane acts as a conductor, channeling the electricity around the aircraft and out the tail. This protects passengers and crew from any harm.
Here's a breakdown of why planes are relatively safe during lightning strikes:
- Lightning Protection Systems: Modern airplanes are equipped with lightning protection systems that include special conductive materials and grounding points. These systems direct the electrical current safely through the aircraft and into the ground.
- Redundant Systems: Planes have multiple systems to ensure safety, even if one system is affected by a lightning strike. This redundancy helps maintain critical functions like navigation, communication, and flight control.
- Regular Inspections: Aircraft undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their lightning protection systems are in good working order.
In short, while being struck by lightning is a common occurrence for planes, the risk to passengers and crew is minimal due to effective safety measures.
