Shocking Moment: Passenger Plane Struck by Lightning Mid-Air

Imagine being on a commercial flight and witnessing an extraordinary event in the sky. That’s precisely what happened on a recent Air Canada flight from Vancouver to London. A passenger, Ethan West, happened to capture a truly remarkable scene on camera. A bolt of lightning struck the Boeing 777-300, illuminating the entire sky. Fortunately, the aircraft continued its journey without any unfortunate incidents.

A Rare Encounter

Lightning strikes on planes are relatively uncommon, with an average occurrence of one or two strikes per year. However, if a plane is unexpectedly exposed to the energy equivalent of 1 billion joules (equivalent to a quarter-ton of TNT explosives), how can it remain safe?

According to retired pilot Chris Hammond, the cockpit and cabin are protected by a conductive “skin” that allows the crew, passengers, and onboard electronics to avoid electric currents. This conductive layer, made of metal mesh, surrounds the exterior of the aircraft and serves as a pathway for the electrical discharge.

Advanced Safety Measures

In addition to the protective mesh, the connection between the aircraft’s electronic systems and the fuel tank is designed to withstand external electrical surges. Before an aircraft is put into service, all its components undergo rigorous testing, including simulations of lightning strikes on the outer shell and internal parts.

Since the infamous Pan Am Boeing 707 incident in 1967, where a lightning strike caused a fuel fire, aviation safety measures have significantly improved to prevent such accidents.

Caption: A unique moment captured in time – Air Canada’s Boeing 777-300 struck by lightning.

Conclusion

While the sight of a plane being struck by lightning may be alarming, it is crucial to remember that modern aircraft are built with safety in mind. The aviation industry’s rigorous safety standards ensure that planes are equipped to handle various situations, including lightning strikes.

As we embark on our future travels, it is comforting to know that the designers and engineers behind these incredible machines continue to prioritize passenger safety.

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