Has any airplane crashed because of thunderstorm?

Others have explained how the wind conditions in thunderstorms can cause a plane to crash, so I'll focus on lightning strikes, hail, and tornadoes. Lightning is generally not a serious threat to airplanes. The aircraft skin is conductive, allowing the current to pass through and exit without causing any damage. read more

Thunderstorms can cause a plane to lose control and even crash, depending on altitude, pilot skills and what damage was caused to the plane. Generally it's the turbulence that is most dangerous and can toss a plane like a dog with a ragdoll. read more

Thunderstorms are fast moving, and delaying landing or take off by 20 minutes or so, till a thunderstorm moves away from the airport, is always a better choice than trying to fly in one and risking a crash. read more