British Airways Flight Struck by Lightning on Approach to Heathrow
On Sunday, the pilot of British Airways flight 501 from Lisbon to London Heathrow reported being struck by lightning while approaching the airport. The incident occurred just underneath the flight deck and exited through the aircraft's tail.
The pilot described seeing the lightning bolt shoot through the cabin, an experience he had only heard of but never witnessed firsthand. Despite the startling event, the flight itself was not affected. However, the pilot made an announcement due to the loud noise it generated, which was noticeable to passengers.
Following the lightning strike, the Airbus A320, which has a history of similar incidents, will undergo an 18-hour inspection. This routine check includes testing the electronic systems and a physical inspection for any damage caused by the lightning.
Lightning strikes on commercial aircraft are relatively common, with each plane typically being struck at least once a year. Despite this frequency, it has been over 40 years since a lightning strike caused a crash. The aircraft's fuselage is designed to conduct electricity and safely channel it out, usually through the tail.
In aviation news, it is noted that Boeing has reduced lightning protection in the wings of its 787 models to cut costs and expedite deliveries, although they maintain that safety has not been compromised.
While aviation technology advances, the power of nature continues to pose challenges. An example of this is an Air Canada Boeing 777, which was struck by lightning departing Vancouver but continued safely to London Heathrow.
The incident underscores the resilience of modern aircraft and the continued importance of rigorous safety inspections to ensure passenger safety in the face of natural phenomena.
