How Does Precipitation Affect Jet Engines?

Simple Flying

There are several factors involved in ensuring jets can fly safely through rain, ice, and snow.

Photo: Alexiushan | Shutterstock

Aircraft engines are designed to withstand rain during flight, as the water is diverted away from the combustion chamber.
The high temperature of the engine's combustion chamber converts incoming water to steam, causing minimal disruption to engine power output.
Ice and hail can pose a risk to engines, as ice buildup may damage fan blades and hail can cause exterior damage, but engines are tested to handle such conditions.