NTSB Issues Deicing Safety Alert

The directive also warns that ice buildup on pitot tubes can lead to instrument failure, impacting readings for airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed.

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 04:21 PM ET

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The NTSB safety alert warned of the dangers of flying in icing conditions, and the adverse effects of airframe and propeller icing on aircraft performance. [FLYING file photo]

Key Takeaways:

The NTSB's Safety Alert SA-097 warns pilots about severe aircraft performance degradation and instrument failures caused by airframe and propeller icing, noting that even minimal ice can drastically increase stall speed.
Pilots should promptly activate deicing boots when icing begins, as recent FAA tests debunk the "ice bridging" concern for aircraft manufactured after 1960.
Strict adherence to aircraft operating handbook procedures for deicing is critical to prevent in-flight loss of control, as past accidents demonstrate the consequences of non-compliance.

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As winter approaches, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued Safety Alert SA-097, reminding pilots about the dangers of flying in icing conditions—namely the adverse effects of airframe and propeller icing on aircraft performance.

SA-097 emphasized that “as little as 1/4-inch of wing-leading edge ice accumulation can increase the stall speed by 25 to 40 knots and cause sudden departure from controlled flight.”

Amelia Walsh

Amelia Walsh is a private pilot who enjoys flying her family’s Columbia 350. She is based in Colorado and loves all things outdoors including skiing, hiking, and camping.