Rising temperatures could keep more flights from taking off on time
Summary
Extreme heat can make it harder for airplanes to take off safely because hot air is thinner, which reduces lift and engine power. Airlines sometimes have to reduce the plane’s weight by limiting passengers, cargo, or fuel to ensure a safe departure, especially at airports in hot or high-altitude locations. Climate change may increase these flight disruptions.Key Facts
- Hot weather causes air to become thinner, making it harder for planes to lift off and engines to work well.
- Airlines may ask passengers to give up seats or remove cargo to lower the plane’s weight in hot conditions.
- Airports in desert climates, like Las Vegas, often face these issues; Las Vegas reached 114°F (47°C) on July 24, 2023.
- High-altitude airports, such as Denver or Mexico City, experience similar challenges because air is naturally thinner at higher elevations.
- Shorter runways also make takeoff harder in hot weather, as planes need more distance to reach lift-off speed.
- Flight safety checks include calculating the plane’s weight, airport elevation, and outside temperature before takeoff.
- Experts compare the effect of thin hot air on airplanes to athletes who tire faster at high altitudes.
- Scientists warn that climate change could cause more frequent heat waves, leading to more flight delays and restrictions.
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