The cover that houses the sensitive antennas in front of the flight deck is referred to as the radome. A radome (radar dome) is a structural, weatherproof enclosure that protects a radar antenna. Radar domes (or radomes) protect radar and communication equipment from weather and debris while allowing electromagnetic signals to pass through their dielectric surfaces without distortion.
Expert behind this article
Jim Goodrich
Jim Goodrich is a pilot, aviation expert and founder of Tsunami Air.
What is a radome (Radar Dome) on aircraft?
A radome (radar and dome) and it is a plastic housing sheltering the antenna assembly of a radar set on an airplane. The radome protects antennas, radars, and other communication systems from environmental factors including rain, wind, ice, or impacts, and it also conceals antenna electronic equipment from view.
A radar dome, also known as a radome, is a protective cover that houses radar and communication equipment while allowing electromagnetic signals to pass through with minimal distortion. Nose cones serve as radomes on most aircraft, streamlining the antenna system and reducing drag. Radome layers are fiberglass and include polyester and epoxy resins, yet the thickness and wall construction greatly affect the RF characteristics. Excessive layers of paint adversely affect radar system performance. A radome must endure lightning, hail, and bird strikes.
What is the primary function of a radome in an aircraft?
The primary function of a radome is to provide mechanical protection for the radar antenna and other communication systems while allowing radio-frequency energy to pass with minimal distortion. Acting as a streamlined fairing, it reduces drag and shields the delicate antenna from bird strikes, rain, hail, and other impacts. Because wall thickness and construction greatly affect RF characteristics, designers balance aerodynamic smoothness against the need for optimal radar transparency. Any deviation or water ingress causes interior delamination, and such damage adversely affects radar system performance.
