Expert: Ned Dolan - 11/2/2005

Question
Is it true that it is not as safe to fly in the winter months due to the fact that a plane traveling at speeds of 500+ mph is very hard on the planes engine, wings and mechanicial parts?

Thanks, Derek

Answer
Hi Derek, I guess you could say that flying is more safe in the summer months as there is no ice or snow on the  runways. The speed the plane flies has nothing to do with it however. The planes fly at the same speed in summer and winter. And the temperatures at altitude, where most of the flight occurs, are about the same in both seasons. I hope this answers your question.  Ned