Adjusting Airline Operations in the Face of Sweltering Temperatures
As scorching temperatures continue to sear parts of the United States, airlines are compelled to adapt their operations in the most affected cities. The extreme heat poses challenges for aircraft, leading carriers to take measures such as reducing fuel, baggage, and even passengers, in order to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Allegiant Airlines' Response to Excessive Heat
Allegiant Airlines, a unit of Allegiant Travel, has proactively addressed the soaring temperatures in the U.S. Southwest, particularly in their home base of Las Vegas. With excessive heat advisories extending through the weekend and temperatures surpassing 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) since June 30, the airline is prepared to delay flights if passenger safety or comfort is at risk.
The Impact of High Temperatures on Aircraft Performance
When faced with high temperatures, air becomes less dense, resulting in reduced engine performance and lift production at a given speed. This necessitates lower takeoff weights and longer takeoff distances to achieve sufficient lift, leading to the need for weight reductions on the aircraft.
Delta Air Lines' Incident
On July 17, passengers on a Delta Air Lines flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta voluntarily disembarked due to aircraft weight issues caused by the heat, resulting in delays. In response to the situation, Delta Air Lines has implemented additional protocols to mitigate the operational impacts of extreme heat on their aircraft. These measures include loading less fuel to account for weight and balance and scheduling refueling along the route as needed.
Challenges with Cooling Aircraft
Even while planes are connected to external cooling units at the gates, extreme heat can sometimes overwhelm the cooling system's capabilities. This is especially evident when aircraft are idled on the tarmac, where the air sucked into the engines for circulation in the cabin might not be adequately cooled.
American Airlines' Preemptive Measures
American Airlines Group is taking proactive steps to ensure cooled air is available on jet bridges connected to their planes. Additionally, they have performed early maintenance on auxiliary power units that run onboard systems when the engines are off. These measures help prevent any adverse effects caused by extreme temperatures.
Caring for Workers in the Heat
The sweltering heat not only impacts aircraft but also takes a toll on airport ramp workers, baggage handlers, and other employees working outside. To address this, Delta, American, and United Airlines Holdings have implemented measures to safeguard their workers' well-being. These measures include more frequent breaks, increased water supply, access to shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces, and cooling towels.
The Persistence of High Temperatures
The scorching heatwave has persisted for weeks in the U.S. Southwest and is expected to continue through the weekend. Cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix have experienced record-breaking temperatures, with some days surpassing 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) since mid-June.
Past Incidents and Adaptations
During the summer of 2017, extreme temperatures forced the cancellation of flights in Phoenix, primarily affecting smaller regional jets and older aircraft. Since then, airlines have learned valuable lessons and adapted their operating plans to minimize the impact of high temperatures on their operations.
In conclusion, the relentless heatwave in parts of the U.S. is pushing airlines to make crucial adjustments to their operations. From weight reductions on aircraft to caring for their employees, airlines are proactively addressing the challenges posed by sweltering temperatures. By implementing these measures, they strive to ensure the safety, comfort, and efficiency of their flights while navigating through extreme weather conditions.