Why Are Fireworks Used During Jet Landings? The Surprising Reasons Behind This Rare Practice
Why Are Fireworks Used During Jet Landings: Fireworks or flares used during a jet plane’s landing might seem strange, but they serve a critical role in aviation safety under special circumstances. While it’s a rare occurrence, this practice is employed only when necessary to ensure smooth and secure landings. Here’s why airport staff sometimes use these eye-catching signals when a jet is landing.
1. Emergency Visual Signals for Pilots
For Communication Malfunctions: In cases where a jet’s communication systems fail mid-flight, ground crews use flares or fireworks to provide visual signals for pilots. These signals let pilots know if they’re cleared for landing or if there’s an emergency protocol to follow. This becomes crucial for guiding the plane safely onto the runway, as visual indicators are the primary fallback when radio systems are down.
Helping Pilots in Low Visibility: When pilots face severe weather or technical challenges that limit visibility, the visual cue of flares on the runway acts as an alternative to ensure a safe descent. By lighting up key sections of the runway, these signals make landing easier, giving pilots a clear path.
2. Bird Control Near the Runway
Keeping Birds Away: Birds around the runway can pose a severe risk to planes, as bird strikes can lead to significant engine damage. Some airports use fireworks or flares to scare birds away from the landing zone, reducing the chances of collision. This method is effective in deterring birds from flying near the runway at critical moments when a plane is landing or taking off.
Safety Measure for Clear Runways: In areas where bird activity is high, using fireworks as a precaution before a jet’s landing ensures a safer, clear runway, which is essential for smooth landings and takeoffs.
When and Why Fireworks Aren’t Common
It’s important to note that flares and fireworks aren’t used every time a plane lands. These measures are reserved for rare and specific situations, often related to safety and visibility. Typically, visual landing aids such as runway lights or LED guides are enough to direct planes, but when the unexpected happens, these fireworks serve as crucial tools in emergency scenarios.
