Extreme Heat Forces U.S. Airlines to Limit Passengers and Fuel Loads
Extreme temperatures in parts of the US and other regions have prompted US airlines to take measures to cope with the adverse effects on aircraft performance. The high temperatures can reduce engine efficiency and the lift produced by airplane wings, leading to safety concerns and operational challenges.
Allegiant Airlines, based in Las Vegas, has warned of potential flight delays if passenger safety is at risk due to extreme heat. Delta Airlines recently experienced weight issues on a flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta, resulting in some passengers voluntarily disembarking from the aircraft.
To address the impact of extreme heat on aircraft operations, airlines like Delta have implemented additional protocols, such as loading less fuel to account for weight and balance and scheduling refueling along the route when necessary. American Airlines is taking extra precautions to provide cooled air on jet bridges connected to planes and perform early maintenance on auxiliary power units.
The performance limitations caused by high temperatures are exacerbated by flight manuals in some aircraft that do not go above 120°F (approximately 49°C). This can pose risks to passengers and require flights to wait until cooler evening temperatures to operate safely.
The heat dome over the US southwest has resulted in scorching temperatures, with Las Vegas reaching 116°F (approximately 47°C) and Phoenix hitting 119°F (approximately 48°C). Safety considerations have led to cancellations and diversions of flights in certain cases.
As extreme temperatures become more common, airlines are likely to encounter additional occasions where they need to implement payload restrictions or stop en route due to fuel limitations. Safety remains a top priority for airlines during periods of extreme heat, necessitating careful planning and precautionary measures to ensure smooth operations and passenger well-being.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, theguardian.com