---
title: "What happens when lightning strikes an aircraft — OnlyPlanes"
description: "When struck by lightning, the current passes mainly on the outer surface of the aircraft. How to protect the system, what to check after the flight and why avoid thunderstorms."
canonical_url: "https://onlyplanes.ru/en/guides/lightning-strike"
locale: en
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  keywords: "What happens when lightning strikes an aircraft"
  "og:description": "How current passes through the airframe and why aircraft still avoid thunderstorms."
  "og:image": "https://onlyplanes.ru/images/aviation/aircraft/boeing-787.webp"
  "og:title": "What happens when lightning strikes an aircraft"
---

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Flight explained

# What happens when lightning strikes an aircraftWhat happens when lightning strikes an aircraft

How current passes through the airframe and why aircraft still avoid thunderstorms.

The short answer

Conductive outer shell directs current mainly on the surface of the aircraft: the discharge enters at one point and exits at another. Systems, wiring and fuel tanks are designed with protection against electromagnetic influence and sparking.

## How the plane is protected from lightning and how dangerous is the storm

After the alleged hit, the aircraft is inspected according to the established procedures. Sometimes there are small traces at the points of entry and exit of the discharge, requiring inspection or repair.

It’s not just because of the lightning. Inside the powerful cloud can be hail, strong vertical flows, icing and intense turbulence, so the crew uses a weather radar and a safe distance.

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