Everyone finds flight delays and cancellations annoying. Most of the time, these delays are because of the weather. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, over 75% of flight delays are caused by bad weather alone.
But whenever this happens, are the disgruntled passengers who have it the worst?
In this article, William Boos of Direct Airway explores the effects of weather in aviation – and on a global scale.
First, let’s find out the types of weather and phenomena the aviation industry avoids.
Hazardous Flying Conditions
Thunderstorms may be the most commonly known weather condition in aviation due to the likelihood of lightning striking. But it can also be because of wind turbulence that can make it difficult for the pilot to control the plane – and the fog that can cause poor visibility.
However, there are other phenomena and conditions that the aviation industry avoids. Such as:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Winter Weather | Winter weather can cause flight delays and cancellations due to the fog and frost that can build up on the aircraft, potentially causing damage to the plane’s wings and engine. |
| Volcanic Ash Clouds | The abrasive particles of volcanic ashes can damage an airplane’s propeller and scratch the cockpit’s windows, impairing the pilot’s visibility. |
| Space Weather | Airplanes flying close to the sun can experience space weather, where a high level of electromagnetic radiation can interfere with radio transmission an signals. |
Delaying and canceling flights because of these conditions prevents aviation disasters.
For instance, poor radio signals can cause poor communication between air traffic control and other planes. If this happens, it can lead to runway incursions, as the pilot will have difficulty verifying if the plane will land in clear space.
Poor communications and visibility can also cause midair collisions.
Additionally, turbulence (despite not being relatively concerning) can still cause serious injuries, such as the recent Delta flight bound for Atlanta. The plane experienced severe turbulence, leading to 11 passengers needing medical treatment.
However, flight delays also impact the economy and the environment.
Environmental Impact
When flights are delayed, the interval between each aircraft gets disrupted.
As a result, many are stuck on the ground as they wait for their turn to take off. But until they do, many of these planes are left running with their engines on, making aircraft burn more fuel and release carbon emissions.
Furthermore, flight delays can also affect the economy.
Economic Impact
When flights are delayed or canceled, people miss scheduled opportunities – executives may miss meetings, or vacationers might ask for hotel and accommodation refunds.
Moreover, airports also experience financial loss whenever there are disruptions in their flight schedules. In an Air Transport Research Society research, they estimated that airports – and flight delays – cost the global economy $75.5 billion annually.
Sometimes, when there are flight delays, airports also cover the passengers’ housing, transportation, and food, adding to their expenses.
Conclusion
Favorable weather conditions are vital to the aviation industry. Not only will they reduce aviation’s impact on the environment and economy, but they also ensure the safety of the passengers and the crew.
