Safety
NTSB Safety Alerts Emphasizes Proper Use of Aircraft Deicing Systems
Pilots told not to wait for ice accumulation before turning on deicing systems
NASA has introduced a new online course to help pilots prepare for icing conditions.
NASA has introduced a new online course to help pilots prepare for icing conditions.

With the winter months just around the corner in the Northern Hemisphere, the NTSB has published Safety Alert SA-097 to remind operators of the risks of flying in icing conditions, including the adverse effects of airframe and propeller icing on aircraft performance.

“As little as one-quarter inch of wing leading-edge ice accumulation can increase the stall speed by 25 to 40 knots and cause sudden departure from controlled fight,” warns the NTSB. In addition, ice accumulation on pitot tubes can cause flight instruments—particularly airspeed, altimeter, and vertical speed indicators—to stop functioning or give incorrect readings.

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