Cracked Windshield on Planes: Safety Concerns and Operational Issues

Cracks in a windshield, whether on a small Cessna or a large commercial airliner, are a significant safety concern. They can affect structural integrity, visibility, and the overall flight safety of an aircraft. Understanding the severity of such cracks and the measures to address them is crucial for every aviation professional.

Are Cracked Windshields a Safety Concern?

Yes, even a crack on a simple Cessna 150, flying at a speed of 100 mph, can pose a safety risk. A bird strike or other external force can cause the crack to expand or completely break, leading to a catastrophic failure. This is why a cracked windshield on a pressurized jet is a critical issue that must be addressed before takeoff.

Impact of Cracks on Different Airplanes

The impact of a cracked windshield varies depending on the type of airplane and the location of the crack. For example, a Boeing 767 (B767), a twin-engine jet airliner, is not allowed to fly with a cracked windshield. Other aircraft, such as those with multiple panes of glass, may be able to continue flying depending on the extent of the damage and the specific pane affected.

According to the Boeing Maintenance Manual, a B737 cannot be dispatched with a cracked windshield. The decision to continue a flight or ground the aircraft depends on the location of the crack. A crack on the outer pane may allow the aircraft to continue flying, but if it is on the inner pane, it is considered an emergency and immediate action is required.

Extreme Cases: Pressurized Environments and Cockpit Integrity

Cracks can have severe consequences in pressurized environments. If a windshield cracks and an outer pane breaks, decompression can occur in the cockpit. This scenario can be even more dangerous if the inner pane also breaks. For example, a British Airways incident in 2017, where a windshield pane blew out, resulted in the captain nearly being sucked out of the plane. The co-pilot managed to hold on to the captain and both were able to continue the flight and land safely.

Another instance, an Eastern Air Lines accident in the Himalayas, where a cockpit window blew out, nearly sucked the co-pilot out of the aircraft. Despite the harsh conditions, the captain managed to fly the plane using minimal instruments and at low temperatures. This highlights the resilience of modern pilots and the importance of understanding the symptoms of a cracked windshield.

Factors Influencing the Severity of Cracks

The severity of a cracked windshield depends on several factors, including the type of airplane and the location of the crack. A Piper Cub or a small private aircraft flying in comfortable conditions may be less affected by a small crack. However, on a high-performance aircraft like an F-35 jets, a crack could cause significant issues, especially during supersonic flight.

For commercial airplanes, the problem lies in the potential loss of visual field if the crack is extensive. Pilots rely on clear visibility to navigate and maintain control of the aircraft. A cracked windshield can partially obstruct this view, leading to reduced visibility and greater risk during takeoff, landing, and severe weather conditions.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Cracked windshields present significant safety concerns for all aircraft, regardless of size or performance. Pilots, maintenance crews, and air traffic controllers must be vigilant and take immediate action if a windshield crack is detected. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential to ensure the structural integrity and safety of aircraft.

Considering the potential risks, it is imperative that aircraft operators adhere to strict safety protocols and maintenance schedules. By doing so, the aviation industry can minimize the risks associated with cracked windshields and continue to provide safe and reliable air travel.

Keywords: cracked windshield, aviation safety, aircraft structural integrity

References:

Boeing Maintenance Manual British Airways Accident Eastern Air Lines Himalayas Accident