Understanding Lightning Strikes on Airplanes: Symptoms, Safety, and Common Outcomes

During a recent flight from Bangkok to Heathrow, we experienced a lightning strike from a nearby thunderstorm, causing a loud bang in the flight deck. Despite the noticeable vibration and shock, no one in the cabin reported hearing or feeling anything. After a thorough check of all systems, we continued on without any issues. Upon arrival, we noticed a small burn mark on the left side of the aircraft's exterior, just below my window.

The Nature of Lightning Strikes on Airplanes

Although lightning strikes on airplanes are rare, they can occur anytime an aircraft is within 20 miles of thunderstorms, given the highly electrically charged air in and near these storms. Pilots are trained to be aware of this risk and take all possible precautions to avoid such encounters. Thunderstorms act like massive natural batteries, with positive and negative charges localizing and discharging through lightning bolts when the charge difference is high enough.

Indicators of Lightning Near an Airplane

Several indicators might signal that an airplane is about to experience a lightning strike:

Visible electrical glow, particularly on sharp areas like propeller tips, which may exhibit green or blue rings. Tiny bolts of electricity dancing across the windshield and windows as charges move about the airframe. Precipitation static, making radio communication unreliable or impossible. A faint, musty odor of ozone when the static charge on the airplane is extremely high. Standing hair on passengers or crew members due to an elevated static charge.

It is important to note that these indicators may not all appear in every lightning encounter, and some strikes can occur with no warning at all. Conversely, the described phenomena can occur without a lightning strike.

The Lightning Strike Itself

Lightning strikes are complex and can be both dangerous and unpredictable. When a strike occurs, the lightning bolt, a stream of electricity with extremely high voltage and current, flows through the airplane's metal structure, following the path of least resistance, and exits the aircraft. This results in minor to moderate damage, such as pinholes, paint damage from high-temperature electricity, and minor damage to electronics. The vast majority of strikes result in only minor damage, with rare cases of severe damage.

Passenger Experiences During a Lightning Strike

During a strike, passengers might see a flash or light through the windows and possibly hear a small "pop." Passengers can usually continue their journey without any further issues. Most carriers have procedures in place to inspect and repair any damage that may occur, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.

Maintaining safety during a flight, especially during severe thunderstorms, is of paramount importance. Airlines and pilots employ rigorous safety protocols to minimize the risk of lightning strikes and prepare for them if they occur.

In summary, lightning strikes on airplanes are rare but possible. With proper training and safety measures, passengers can trust that they are in capable hands, even during such unexpected events. Understanding the signs and outcomes of such occurrences can greatly alleviate passenger concerns and contribute to a safer flying experience.