What advantage does the lightning summary data provide to crews?

The lightning summary data offers crucial insights by providing information on the location, movement, and intensity of thunderstorms. This data is vital for flight crews as it allows them to effectively assess and navigate around hazardous weather conditions. By monitoring the real-time developments of thunderstorms, crews can make informed decisions regarding route adjustments, avoiding areas of active lightning and severe turbulence associated with these storms.

This capability is especially important for maintaining safety and compliance with regulations regarding weather flying, as thunderstorms pose significant risks to aircraft operations. Having accurate and timely information enables pilots to enhance situational awareness and ensure the safety of the flight while still maintaining operational efficiency. The detailed assessment of thunderstorms provided by the lightning summary data is therefore a key tool in aviation weather management.