You know it: Airplanes and thunderstorms don’t mix. These convective beasts can produce airframe-shattering turbulence, damaging hail, sudden and dramatic wind shear, blinding downpours, and strong, gusty winds—sometimes as much as 20 miles from the edge of a cell. The good news is that it’s not difficult to avoid these violent storms—if you know how to use the tools at your disposal.
As the convective season is upon us, participate in the Air Safety Institute (ASI) “Storm Week” from June 9 through June 16. Each day during “Storm Week,” learn how to improve your ability to read the weather, understand how ATC and weather briefers can aid you, and when to say “No” to a flight. Let the Air Safety Institute be your guide to its terrific resources such as courses, quizzes, and publications made available to you—free! Just look at ASI’s Thunderstorm Awareness Safety Spotlight to get an idea of what’s offered.
So how can you mitigate risks and use good judgment when it comes to a weather-related go/no-go decision? Apply what you learn from “Storm Week,” heed adverse weather warnings, and always have a plan B and stick to it!
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