The scorching summer of 2023 has set new records in portions of the United States and worldwide. However, many travelers are unaware that these intense heat waves are causing considerable disruptions in the aviation industry.
According to reports, airlines are now being forced to adopt measures to handle the challenges imposed by rising temperatures, ensuring both passenger safety and operational efficiency.
Heatwaves Impacting Flight Operations
As the mercury climbs, the hot air becomes less dense, leading to reduced engine performance and diminished lift generated by aircraft wings. This necessitates adjustments to takeoff weights and distances, requiring airlines to address these thermal challenges proactively.
The Guardian reports that Allegiant Airlines, based in Las Vegas, is on the frontlines of this weather-driven revolution.
With excessive heat advisories becoming the norm in the Southwest, the carrier has cautioned that passenger safety cannot be compromised. They have put in place measures to delay flights if necessary to ensure optimal conditions for takeoff.
In a recent incident, Delta Air Lines witnessed the impact of heat-induced weight issues firsthand.
Reports say several passengers and crew on a flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta volunteered to disembark due to delays caused by aircraft weight challenges arising from the sweltering temperatures, ultimately leading to canceled flights.
These occurrences have prompted airlines to take precautionary steps to prevent further disruptions.
Extra Protocols
Airlines like Delta and American Airlines have implemented additional protocols in response to the challenging climate conditions.
Bloomberg reports that these include loading less fuel to manage weight and balance and strategically scheduling refueling along the flight route. These adjustments ensure safety while navigating the heatwave's effects on aircraft performance.
Moreover, the critical issue of aircraft cooling is also receiving attention. When planes are parked at gates, they are typically connected to external cooling units.
However, extreme heat can overpower these cooling systems, leading to discomfort for passengers and potential disruptions in onboard systems.
American Airlines has taken measures to ensure that jet bridges are equipped with cooling capabilities, and they have also initiated early maintenance on auxiliary power units that function when engines are off.
Airline Worker Welfare in the Heatwave
Beyond the cabin, airlines are also considering the well-being of their ground staff during prolonged heatwaves.
Ramp workers, baggage handlers, and other laborers are being provided with more frequent breaks, access to shaded areas or air conditioning, additional water supply, and cooling towels.
These efforts aim to ensure their safety and prevent heat-related health issues while they perform their crucial roles in airport operations.
The implications of extreme heat on aviation go beyond immediate operational challenges. The heat dome over the US Southwest is an alarming sign of what could be a recurring issue affecting airports and airlines alike.
Flights in Phoenix experienced cancellations in 2017 due to safety calculations that did not account for 120°F temperatures.
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