Lightning Effects On Aircraft

The modern all-metal transport airplane is in general inherently well protected from lightning damage.

The metal surface of the airplane forms an inherent safe path for lightning currents around occupants and equipment in the interior. Certain external elements such as movable control surfaces, plastic sections, and outside antennas require protection against lightning. Therefore a thorough knowledge of the character of the lightning discharge and its various effects is of importance. This paper gives an introductory brief discussion of the nature of the lightning discharge phenomena and possible effects on aircraft.