Abstract <p>This paper explores the behavior of air inside a corona discharge reactor, specifically in a tip-plane configuration, subjected to an applied voltage. The ionization of the air by the electric field generates ionizing waves, leading to a dynamic motion of the air governed by Navier–Stokes equations for a viscous fluid. The two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations are solved numerically using an implicit algorithm that combines the finite difference method (FDM) and the implicit Euler scheme with the Newton–Raphson method. Two situations are examined: a single discharge and a series of discharges. The results reveal the distinct formation of primary and secondary vortexes in the air stream. In the case of a single discharge, a transition to symmetrical vortexes is observed, followed by an oscillatory phase characterized by the intermittent appearance of tertiary vortices. In contrast, for a series of discharges, the flow profiles show a cyclic repetition with a gradual increase in flow velocity.</p>