Travel Glossary

Lightning Strike

Lightning can hit an aircraft. Researches show that every aircraft is struck by a lightning once a year on average. If an aircraft is struck by a lightning, it can cause a radiant light and a strong rumble along with shakes. In case of a lightning strike, passengers should remain calm and follow the flight attendant’s instructions.

What Happens If a Lightning Strikes?

Planes are engineered in accordance with Faraday cage design. Once a plane is struck by a lightning, lightning turns back into the air while the plane remains unharmed. Also, the plain is painted with anti-static paint. This paint allows lightning to leave the planes unscathed. Designed against a lightning strike with its equipment enabling lightning to go back into the air, aircraft remains unharmed or sustains only minor damages.

Liquid seals around the fuel tank and the jumpers helping the static on the aircraft’s outer body to pass harmlessly minimize the effects. Only the small parts on the aircraft’s outer body might get harm but it is quite predictable in case of a lightning strike.

Pay Attention to These If Your Plane is Struck by A Lightning

• Do not stand up in case of a lightning strike or turbulence. Remain calm by following the instructions of the flight attendants.
• When the electricity is discharged through lightning, it can create explosion sounds. But there is no need to worry.
• Do not forget that the aircraft are engineered with similar types of equipment like lightning conductors. That is why it is impossible for you to get harmed by lightning.
• You can try comforting the passengers next to you after a lightning strike or wait for further assistance from flight attendants.