How Planes Avoid Storms: Safety Technologies Passengers Don't Know About.

According to ТСН: Air passengers rarely encounter serious danger during storms, as pilots can avoid storms thanks to radar systems and collaboration with dispatchers. Planes are also designed to withstand lightning strikes.

This was explained by pilots and aviation experts in a conversation with the publication. Despite impressive episodes from the movie 'Plane' (2023), where a plane encounters a severe storm and gets struck by lightning, such situations actually occur very rarely. The pilot noted that the main goal is to avoid flights during storms.

“Storms bring strong turbulence and other dangers, so we try to avoid them,” he explained.

How Pilots Track Storms

Before each flight, crews receive forecasts and satellite maps illustrating potential storm zones. During the flight, they use onboard radar and the Weather Avoidance System (WAS), which shows the location, strength, and direction of storm movement.

“The radar sends a signal that bounces off clouds and returns. The more moisture, the stronger the storm,” explained a former pilot.

Pilots also exchange information via radio communication: if someone encounters turbulence, they warn others. This allows for monitoring storms over long distances and adjusting altitude or route to avoid dangerous areas.

Flights Through Storms

In some cases, planes fly between storms while maintaining a safe distance of 10–20 miles from the most powerful clouds. Pilots try to avoid flying over storm systems, as their height can reach 40,000–50,000 feet, and storms can develop rapidly.

Even if a plane is near a storm, the most common consequences may be minor wing damage from hail or mild turbulence. Threats to passengers occur extremely rarely.

Dangers During Landing

The most dangerous storms are considered to be those during landing due to sudden wind gusts (wind shear). Modern planes and airports are equipped with warning systems, and in case of dangerous conditions, the flight may remain airborne or be redirected to another airport.

On average, a commercial airplane is hit by lightning approximately twice a year. Modern designs are protected, and electrical systems have backup power.

“It’s like a lightning strike in a car — a flash and a loud noise, but passengers are not in danger,” he said.

Thanks to technology, pilot training, and interaction with dispatchers, flights remain safe even under adverse weather conditions. The risks associated with storms and lightning for passengers are minimal.