Hail Is Planes' Worst Enemy, Here's Why

Hail might seem like harmless frozen raindrops, but for airplanes, it's a whole different story. Picture this: a plane flying through the sky, minding its own business, when suddenly, it encounters a hailstorm. Those innocent-looking chunks of ice can wreak havoc on an aircraft's exterior, causing dents, cracks, and sometimes even engine damage. It's not just the impact that's the problem; it's also the sheer force behind each hailstone as it pelts the plane. To make matters worse, hailstorms can be unpredictable, popping up out of nowhere and catching pilots off guard. That's why pilots do their best to steer clear of hailstorms whenever possible to keep themselves and their passengers safe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices