Supercooled droplets can freeze on impact
Liquid water can remain unfrozen below 0°C in certain clouds. When those droplets strike an aircraft surface, they can freeze rapidly and build clear, rime or mixed ice.
Wing contamination changes airflow
Ice roughens the leading edge and can cause airflow separation sooner than expected. The aircraft may stall at a higher speed and respond differently than in clean conditions.
Different systems protect different surfaces
Jet engine inlets and wing leading edges may be heated with bleed air or electricity. Many smaller aircraft use inflatable boots that crack accumulated ice from the leading edge.
Pitot tubes and sensors need protection too
Blocked pressure sensors can produce unreliable airspeed or altitude information. Critical probes are electrically heated to prevent ice accumulation.
Ground deicing protects the takeoff configuration
Snow, frost or ice on a wing before departure can be unacceptable even if the aircraft has in-flight protection. Heated fluids remove contamination and may provide temporary anti-icing protection while the aircraft waits to depart.
Avoidance remains part of the strategy
No protection system makes unlimited icing exposure acceptable. Crews change altitude, route or destination when conditions exceed the aircraft’s approved capability.
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