Current usually travels over the outer skin
Metal structures conduct electricity naturally, while composite aircraft use conductive meshes and bonding paths. The design goal is to keep high current away from vulnerable internal systems.
Fuel tanks receive special protection
Designers control ignition sources, bonding and lightning paths around tanks and vents. Fuel-system certification is especially rigorous because a spark in the wrong place could have severe consequences.
Electronics are shielded against electrical effects
Wiring, computers and sensors are protected from induced currents and electromagnetic interference. Redundancy also helps ensure that one damaged channel does not remove critical capability.
Pilots still avoid severe thunderstorms
Lightning tolerance does not make storm penetration desirable. Thunderstorms can contain hail, turbulence, wind shear and heavy precipitation, which are separate hazards from the electrical discharge itself.
A strike can leave small physical marks
Entry and exit points may show burns, pits or damage to static wicks and surface components. Maintenance crews inspect suspected areas and repair them according to the aircraft manual.
The event is usually more dramatic to passengers than to the aircraft
Cabin occupants may see the flash and hear noise, while cockpit indications remain normal. The crew’s response is based on system status and operating procedures rather than the visual spectacle.
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