**Lightning Strike Forces TUI Flight from Brussels to Hurghada to Turn Back**
In an unexpected turn of events, a TUI flight en route from Brussels, Belgium, to Hurghada, Egypt, was forced to return to its departure airport after being struck by lightning. The incident, which occurred recently, highlights the challenges faced by airlines in ensuring passenger safety during adverse weather conditions. While lightning strikes on aircraft are relatively common, the decision to turn back underscores the airline's commitment to prioritizing safety above all else.
### The Incident: What Happened?
The TUI flight, operated by a Boeing 737, departed from Brussels Airport with its destination set for the popular Red Sea resort city of Hurghada. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered a thunderstorm, during which it was struck by lightning. Although modern aircraft are designed to withstand lightning strikes without compromising safety, the flight crew made the precautionary decision to return to Brussels for a thorough inspection of the aircraft.
Passengers on board reported hearing a loud noise and seeing a bright flash of light, which caused initial alarm. However, the crew quickly reassured everyone that the situation was under control. The aircraft landed safely back at Brussels Airport, where it was met by maintenance teams and safety inspectors.
### Why Aircraft Are Struck by Lightning
Lightning strikes on airplanes are not as rare as one might think. On average, commercial aircraft are struck by lightning once every 1,000 flight hours, or roughly once a year for most planes. Aircraft are designed with advanced engineering to handle such events. The aluminum skin of the aircraft acts as a Faraday cage, allowing the electrical charge to pass around the exterior of the plane and exit without affecting the interior or critical systems.
However, after any lightning strike, it is standard procedure for the aircraft to undergo a detailed inspection to ensure that no damage has occurred to sensitive components, such as the avionics, fuel systems, or external surfaces.
### The Decision to Turn Back
While the aircraft's design minimizes the risk posed by lightning, the decision to turn back was likely influenced by several factors:
1. **Passenger Safety**: Ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers is always the top priority for airlines. Returning to Brussels allowed the crew to address any potential concerns and avoid unnecessary risks.
2. **Aircraft Inspection**: A post-strike inspection is essential to confirm that the aircraft remains airworthy. Even minor damage, such as scorch marks or small punctures, can compromise safety if not addressed.
3. **Regulatory Compliance**: Aviation authorities require airlines to follow strict protocols after incidents like lightning strikes. Returning to the departure airport ensures compliance with these regulations.
4. **Operational Considerations**: Continuing the flight to Hurghada without a proper inspection could have led to complications, including the potential need for emergency maintenance in a foreign location.
### Passenger Experience
Passengers on the flight experienced a delay as a result of the incident, but many expressed gratitude for the
