Quick Facts
- Type
- Ground Operation
- Definition
- The application of heated glycol-based fluid to an aircraft on the ground to ...
- Used By
- Pilots, Ground Crews
Definition#
Deicing is the ground procedure of spraying heated glycol-based fluid (Type I) on aircraft surfaces to remove accumulated snow, ice, or frost. Anti-icing (Type IV fluid) is then applied to prevent re-accumulation during taxi and takeoff.
Why It Matters Operationally#
Any contamination on wing, tail, or control surfaces degrades aerodynamic performance and can prevent safe flight. Deicing operations add time and cost to winter operations and can cause significant departure delays at affected airports.