Planes All Over the World Get Struck by Lightning Almost Daily

Lightning strikes often happen on airplanes worldwide. Each year, on average, one or two commercial planes are struck by lightning, as reported by the National Weather Service in the United States. Yet, there are a variety of factors that determine how often it happens.

Geographical considerations and the frequency with which the plane takes off and lands are two examples. Lightning strikes may seem like a disaster, but aircraft pass tests designed to simulate actual strikes to earn certification.