Winter Flight

For those of us flying IFR in locations with a high probability of a white Christmas each year, we often need to recalibrate our aeronautical mindset from summer. We have to switch our weather default from Where are the thunderstorms? to Where is the ice? Winter brings us more challenging preflights, engine starts and airport operations. Even though we are all experienced instrument pilots, its still worth taking a few minutes to think about cold weather operations as we head into the worst of the season.

Key Takeaways:

• Winter IFR flying demands a recalibrated mindset focused on ice, extensive weather planning (including winds aloft and multiple alternates), and carrying survival gear due to complex conditions and increased risks.
• Allocate ample extra time for thorough preflight activities such as de-icing (ensuring a clean wing), engine preheat, and organized cockpit setup, and execute cautious taxi, takeoff, and landing procedures (e.g., no flaps with ice, fast approaches, careful braking) to mitigate cold weather hazards.

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