Extreme Heat and Its Impact on Air Travel: How the Aviation Industry is Adapting

As climate change pushes global temperatures higher, the aviation industry faces new challenges. To ensure safety and efficiency, airports and airlines are making significant adjustments to accommodate these rising temperatures.

Record-Breaking Heat and Increased Air Travel

This summer has seen both record-breaking temperatures and a surge in air travel, with U.S. airlines expected to transport 271 million passengers worldwide, a 6.3% increase from last year. Despite the unprecedented heat, the industry is adapting to this "new normal," according to Kevin Burke, president and CEO of Airports Council International–North America.

Impact on Airport Operations

Extreme heat poses several operational challenges. For instance, in July 2022, a heatwave in Europe caused runway damage at London's Luton Airport, halting flights temporarily. In the U.S., record-breaking heat affected operations across several states, leading airlines like Alaska Airlines to offer ground crews breaks in air-conditioned vans.

Challenges with Aircraft Performance

High temperatures affect aircraft performance. As Patrick Smith, a pilot and founder of the "Ask the Pilot" blog, explains, planes perform better in cooler temperatures due to denser air. In very hot weather, engines produce less thrust, sometimes necessitating longer runways for takeoff. In Las Vegas, for example, officials have adjusted takeoff configurations to avoid mountainous terrain, which can cause delays.

Weight Adjustments and Passenger Impact

To cope with extreme heat, aircraft often need to reduce weight by offloading baggage, fuel, or even passengers, leading to potential delays and passenger frustration. On particularly hot days, planes may burn off fuel on the runway to reduce weight, though this can only be done to a limited extent.

Mechanical and Safety Concerns

Engines are susceptible to internal temperature limits, which can be more easily exceeded in extreme heat, posing safety risks. Preparations are made to mitigate these risks, such as mandatory heat-safety courses for airport staff and encouraging hydration and frequent breaks.

Measures to Keep Planes Cool

Airlines like Southwest and Delta have implemented measures to keep aircraft cool, including running air conditioning on the ground and advising passengers to close window shades and open air vents. Despite these efforts, high temperatures can still cause inconveniences, such as exploding soda cans.

Infrastructure Upgrades

To better handle extreme heat, airports are upgrading infrastructure by installing smart glass to reduce heat transmission, replacing old equipment with more efficient technology, and improving electrical systems.

Pet Travel Restrictions

Airlines are also adapting their policies for pet travel. Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines do not allow pets in cargo holds at any time. Other airlines, like Alaska and American, have temperature-based restrictions and summer travel prohibitions to ensure pet safety.

In summary, while extreme heat presents significant challenges to the aviation industry, airports and airlines are taking proactive steps to adapt, ensuring safety and efficiency in the face of rising global temperatures.