Solar Storm: How Flights Are Affected – Kolydas Analysis

A strong geomagnetic storm, level G3, is expected to affect Earth, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. The phenomenon may make the aurora borealis visible in areas further south than usual.

Theodore Kolydas, former director of the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), analyzes the impact of solar storms on flights. As he explains, strong solar storms can increase ionizing radiation, especially on flights near the poles. In such cases, airlines may change routes or reduce flight altitude to limit exposure.

Kolydas points out that solar storm and geomagnetic storm are different phenomena. The solar storm occurs on the Sun and affects satellites and flights, while the geomagnetic storm occurs on Earth and can affect the power grid, GPS, and telecommunications.

Solar activity is expected to peak between 2024 and 2026.