Structural icing

Structural Icing

Structural icing occurs when ice accumulates on the exterior surfaces of an aircraft, including the wings, tail, fuselage, and other exposed areas. This ice buildup can create a range of hazardous conditions that affect the performance and control of the aircraft, including reduced lift, increased drag, and changes in the aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoil surfaces.

Structural icing can occur in a variety of conditions, including during flights through clouds or precipitation, in temperatures near or below freezing, or in conditions of high humidity. Typically, icing is most likely to occur in the presence of supercooled water droplets, which can freeze rapidly upon contact with the aircraft’s surfaces.

To prevent structural icing, aircraft manufacturers and operators utilize a range of strategies and technologies, including de-icing and anti-icing systems, weather monitoring and forecasting, and flight planning and avoidance strategies. Effective management of structural icing is critical to maintaining the safety and reliability of aircraft operations, particularly in cold and icy conditions.