Comment Re:From what I've heard, it really is that bad... (Score 2, Informative) 673
I am an expert on this, I design cooled turbine blades for a turbine engine company. There are a number of problems the ash could cause including clogging up small holes used to film cool the turbine blades, and causing thermal barrier coating (if used) to come off. The result of either would be significantly reduced turbine blade life.
And yes, it could be such a significant reduction as to quickly rupture the blades and shut down the engines. Planes dropping out of the air... bad idea.