De-Icing And What To Expect This Winter Season
With frost settling in throughout the country, de-icing can be a familiar procedure at many airports. De-icing is a very important safety precaution that should not be avoided or rushed.
Because de-icing is an “unforeseen” or “game time” decision made by your flight crew, it is generally not included in the cost you receive on your charter quote. When traveling in areas of the country that typically have snowfall during the winter months, however, it should be expected and considered as a likely cost. De-icing bills can vary in costs depending on the weather conditions and aircraft being used. Some aircraft will only require a quick spray over, while others may require more than one treatment.
De-icing fluid performance is measured by holdover time (HOT), which is the length of time an aircraft can wait after being treated prior to takeoff. Holdover time will vary based on a few factors including temperature, wind, precipitation, humidity, aircraft skin temperature, and other conditions. We at Privaira put safety first, so if there is a delay be assured your safety is our top priority.
Why is de-icing so important?
The wings and rear tail components of an aircraft are designed and engineered with an extremely specific shape in order to optimize lift, performance and control. When snow and ice build up on parts of the airframe, they greatly alter the way in which air flows past it, disturbing its aerodynamics. The lift performance can consequently be diminished, reducing the stability and control of the aircraft in flight. Therefore, for the safety of those on board, de-icing is absolutely mandatory so that all snow and ice is removed before take off.
How is a private jet de-iced?
The fluid is sprayed onto a private jet. This fluid has either (or both) de-icing or anti-icing properties. At an airport, the fluid is sprayed onto the private jet by a specially designed vehicle called a de-icing rig. The fluid is often applied at a high temperature and is normally orange in colour. This helps to indicate where the fluid has been applied. Private jet customers are often asked to be on-board during the de-icing process. This allows a quick take off after de-icing.