Bad weather... perhaps one of the aspects of flying that causes the most concern! Let’s find out a bit more about how it is managed.Ice
Ice buildup on an aircraft can create problems because, besides adding weight to the structure, it can settle on the wings and tail, altering their aerodynamic characteristics and thus their ability to support and control the plane in flight.
When atmospheric conditions are expected to cause ice accumulation, "de-icing" operations are carried out before departure. Right before takeoff, the plane stops in a dedicated area where it is "sprayed" with special fluids. These serve a dual purpose: removing any existing ice and protecting the surfaces from new ice formation.
The protective effect of this operation is time-limited, but it only needs to protect the aircraft during the takeoff and climb phases. This is because once the plane reaches cruise altitude and speed, ice formation is no longer possible—unless you enter major storms, which, of course, are strictly avoided.
In any case, every aircraft is equipped with sensors that detect ice and anti-icing systems that heat the most "sensitive" components when needed: the leading edge of the wing, the engine air intakes, and the propellers (on turboprop planes). The windshield, meanwhile, is constantly heated.
But how do we avoid thunderstorms at night or when flying inside clouds?
Weather Radar
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Clouds
Not all clouds are created equal! In general, flying through clouds presents no problems, unless they are storm clouds known as "cumulonimbus." Inside these, there is enormous energy in the form of ice, lightning, and very strong air currents—all elements that could seriously damage an aircraft.
Rain
Rain is absolutely not a problem, other than slightly reducing the aircraft's performance during takeoff and landing (much like a car on a wet road). In such cases, the necessary precautions are taken according to well-defined and codified procedures.
Lightning
See [this post].
Cyclones (Hurricanes/Typhoons)
A phenomenon mostly encountered in the planet's equatorial regions. These are, obviously, to be avoided at all costs. This is handled right from the flight planning phase by specifically tracing a route that keeps us far away!
Turbulence
See [this post].
Fog
See [this post].
Strong Winds
See [this post].
Windshear
"Windshear" is a rather subtle danger during takeoff and landing, which is why it is given such great importance. Simply put, it is a sudden change in wind speed and/or direction, caused by nearby mountains or storm activity.
Encountering a windshear zone during takeoff or landing is dangerous because it could upset the plane's aerodynamic balance, even causing it to stall (see this post). Fortunately, we are now able to predict the likelihood of windshear with good precision based on the terrain (orography) and weather conditions.
Technology comes to our aid once again with devices, both on board and on the ground, that alert pilots to the imminent presence of windshear, giving them time to apply the required procedures to handle the situation safely.