Why no props?
If only jet engines are susceptible to flame out, why can't propellor driven aircraft fly near volcanic ash clouds? Is it only the windscreen abrasion that makes it dangerous for them or are there air intake clogging vulnerabilities with piston engines as well?
What about rotary winged aircraft?
I'm just curious that air space shutdown seems to be the step taken rather than grounding of susceptible aircraft - are there really no aircraft with the ability to fly safely through volcanic ash. or is it that we're not sure so no-one's willing to take the risk?
I wonder if any wind tunnel testing has been (or is planned to be) done with volcanic ash to explore options in case this volcano in Iceland is going to continue erupting for months or years.
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Philip
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