Airframe Ice and Rain Control

Ice is a flight hazard because it destroys the smooth air flow across the aircraft's lifting and control surfaces. Ice on wings and other surfaces decreases their ability to produce lift, increases the weight of the aircraft, and increases induced drag. Removal or prevention of ice is necessary for an aircraft to be safe to fly. Rain is a hazard because it affects the pilot's ability to see clearly. This chapter deals with operating and maintaining aircraft ice prevention and removal systems, as well as procedures and equipment for ground ice and snow removal. Also reviewed are rain control systems and methods of protecting windscreens from the effects of rain.