Weather in Aviation: Volcanic Ash
March 5th, 2024 Weather in Aviation: Volcanic Ash iceland-ash.jpg Volcanic ash is an uncommon form of weather that can cause huge dangers to aircraft of all classes and categories. Volcanic ash occurs when a volcano erupts, and spews fragments of rock and mineral fragments into the atmosphere. At times these these collums of ash can reach altitudes of over 150,000 feet up into the atmosphere. Much too high for any aircraft to climb over. If penetrated these clouds of ash can have disastrous consequences. In a normal cloud, you lose visibility and are at risk for ice, in an ash cloud you lose visibility as well but icing isn't your concern, it is the impact of the very small rock and mineral fragments on your engine and airframe. The abrasive nature of the ash can damage the windshield, fuselage, wings, and other crucial components of the aircraft. One event in 1982 is a great example of the dangers of volcanic ash. British Airways Fligh...