On average, an airliner is struck by lightning once a year. Despite their rarity, encounters with these atmospheric phenomena can be very violent, but they do not cause accidents. Like this aircraft, which was struck head-on on the runway at an Arkansas airport last June. No consequences. So what specific technical features protect aircrafts from these natural storms?
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Faraday's cage
First, the Faraday cage. A physical experiment studied in the 19th century by Michael Faraday, it involves conducting electromagnetic fields using a metal shield. The electric charge is absorbed by the materials in the cage, which then protects the inside.
The principle also applies to aircraft. The skin around an aircraft acts as a Faraday cage, diverting the effects of lightning onto the surface of the fuselage. The interior of the cabin is therefore protected. No risk of explosion or fire. The aircraft can continue its journey in complete safety.
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Flawless technology
But today's aircraft are also protected by other elements around the envelope, such as carbon composite material (a material made up of at least two different types of material, including carbon) or aluminium. Both highly conductive, they help to cushion the impact of lightning strikes.
Lightning protection is also enhanced by the presence of lightning conductors at the wingtips and tail of aircraft. There are also surge protection devices to protect the jet's electrical circuits. The greatest danger is that the current on the aircraft's surface could disrupt the electrical systems essential to controlling the aircraft.
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Tanks under surveillance
The fuel tanks are equipped with systems capable of dissipating static electricity, avoiding any risk of fuel explosion. So there's no need to panic in the event of a storm, because the safest thing to do in the air or on the ground is to stay indoors.
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This article has been translated from Gentside FR.
