Ever wonder if airplanes can fly in snowy weather? Rates of annual snowfall in the United States vary from state to state. Northern states like Maine and Vermont get up to 90 inches of snow per year, whereas southern states like Georgia and Florida may get little or no snow.
Problems Associated With Flying in the Snow
Snow poses several potential problems for pilots, one of which is limited visibility. Just like rain limits pilots’ visibility, so does snow. Pilots may struggle to see their surroundings while flying in heavy snow.
Another problem associated with flying in the snow is ice buildup. Snow can only fall when the temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. This is the temperature at which water freezes. As snow falls and melts on airplanes, it may refreeze to create ice structures. These ice structures can weigh down airplanes while also interfering with various flight control devices.
Yes, Airplanes Can Fly in Snow
Airplanes can and do fly in snowy weather. As long as the snow isn’t too heavy, most major airports will remain operational, and commercial flights will continue. With that said, small airplanes may remain grounded until the snow has subsided.
Small airplanes have less mass than large airplanes. Therefore, they are more susceptible to weather conditions like heavy rain, snow and strong winds.
How Pilots Deal With Snow
Pilots deal with snow in several ways. Commercial pilots, for instance, will typically fly above the snow. Even if it’s snowing on the ground, it may not be snowing at 30,000+ feet. By climbing to a cruising altitude of at least 30,000 feet, commercial pilots can enjoy clear skies with little or no snow.
Pilots also receive guidance from Air Traffic Control (ATC). ATC will monitor the weather and provide pilots with up-to-date information. Pilots may then use this information to change or adjust their routes accordingly.
Most modern airplanes are also equipped with deicing systems. As the name suggests, deicing systems are designed to melt and remove ice from airplanes. They often consist of electrically powered heating elements. As electricity flows through the heating elements, they will heat up, thereby melting any lingering nice.
Some airplanes may use deicing fluid as well. Deicing fluid consists of ethylene glycol, also known as “antifreeze,” or isopropyl alcohol. Airplanes may spray one of these deicing fluids on problematic surfaces like their wings to remove and prevent the accumulation of ice.
