What Happens When Rain Falls on an Airplane During Flight?
Have you ever wondered whether rain falling during flight would affect an airplane's interior? The short answer is no, but it's not that simple. Let's delve deeper to uncover the full story behind rain and airplanes.
Aircraft Design and Rain Protection
Modern commercial and general aviation aircraft are designed to withstand rain and other weather conditions without causing any significant damage to the interior. The design includes sealed windows and doors, which prevent rainwater from entering the cabin. When rain falls on a plane during flight, it is guided away from the passenger area through the smooth surface of the aircraft's exterior. This is why passengers typically do not experience any moisture inside the airplane.
Open Cockpit Aircraft and Rain Exposure
There are rare instances where an aircraft's interior can get wet due to rain during flight, specifically with older open cockpit aircraft. These planes, such as the BAK Eng deuce, have exposed cockpit designs with no enclosed cabin. Flying in such aircraft exposes the pilot and sometimes the passenger to rain and other elements if the speed is not sufficient.
For example, if you were to fly a Stearman Model 75 or a similar open cockpit airplane, rain could directly impact the pilot. If you maintain an airspeed above 100 kias, the rain will flow smoothly off the windscreen, and you will stay dry. However, below 80 kias, the situation changes, and you can expect to get wet.
The Impact of Airspeed on Rain Exposure
Airspeed plays a crucial role in determining whether rain will affect an open cockpit aircraft. The higher the airspeed, the more effectively the rain is deflected by the aircraft's nose and windscreen. In open cockpit planes, the pilot must be cautious about their speed to avoid getting wet during a rainstorm.
In closed cockpit aircraft, one might still experience rain during a storm, but it is very rare unless the plane is parked. Even then, the pilot and passengers can remain dry as long as the rain doesn't manage to seep in through any openings. When taxiing, especially with wing-mounted engines, rainwater can accumulate on the wings and fuselage, but it generally doesn't impact the cabin's interior.
Conclusion
While modern and well-maintained aircraft protect their interiors from rain during flight, open cockpit aircraft present a different scenario. If you are planning a flight in an open cockpit plane, it's wise to consider the airspeed and weather conditions to stay dry. For most contemporary aircraft, however, rain exposure is minimal and the interior remains dry and comfortable for passengers.