What happens if planes are struck by lightning in a thunder storm?
The effect of a lightning strike is usually harmless, although sometimes some mysterious things can occur. The average commercial jet (if such a thing exists) is actually struck by lightning about twice a year. Some may never be struck, others may be struck more. It depends on where the aircraft’s flights usually take it. FAA regulations require commercial aircraft to remain at least 20 nautical miles from thunderstorms and other severe weather masses. However, sometimes this is unavoidable during low level operation. Many folks can tell a tale or two about a horrifying takeoff in a storm. Storms and lightning may be a scary thought for an airborne passenger. On the flight deck, they aren’t as scary as you think. I’ve been an airline pilot since I turned 23. I’ve held positions for cargo airlines as a first officer on 747s. 757/767’s, DC-9’s, DC-10’s and now, a captain of the CRJ-200. I’ve seen more lightning strikes and thunderstorms than most storm chasers. One of my first experience
