Interim Report - Introduction - EASA

INTERIM REPORT – OPTIONS FOR CHANGE – ATTACHMENT A
EASA.2009.OP.21
The majority of the problems found in this study may be classified into three major
categories:
− Problems associated with detection of and inspection for ice during pre-flight
inspections;
− Problems with ice removal, or the confirmation of successful ice removal after de-icing;
and
− Difficulties in confirming that aircraft critical surfaces were free from frozen
contamination before takeoff.
The procedural problems observed in 25% of reports included:
− failure of de-icing crews to follow prescribed procedures,
− inadequately designed procedures for de-icing and/or post de-icing checks,
− poor communication between de-icing crews and flight crews,
− improperly prepared de-icing fluids,
− lack of reliable equipment, and
− inadequate staffing levels to conduct de-icing.
Inspections: 25% of the problems noted were the result of difficulties in detecting ice on
aircraft wings during pre-flight. Half of these cited the elevated height of wing and tail
surfaces as a major factor in ice inspection/detection difficulties. 11% cited ice detection
problems such as crews being unable to see ice due to poor lighting conditions, the
transparent nature of clear ice, or ice that was otherwise hidden from view. Not being able to
reach ice during a tactile wing inspection was also cited. Schedule (time) pressures were
also reported as contributing to inadequate inspections.
Ice Removal: 50% of reports mentioned problems with ice removal and/or verification of ice
removal. 25% cited problems of ice remaining on aircraft critical surfaces after de-icing was
completed. In 12 cases where de-icing was ineffective at removing all the contamination the
flight crew relied on the de-icing crew's statement or hand signals that de-icing had been
completed, and therefore, failed to verify ice removal for themselves.
Before Takeoff: A quarter of the reports in this study referenced problems with the captain
making the determination of a “clean wing”. In the absence of an external pre-take-off
contamination check by ground crew, pilots found checking the wings from the cockpit and
cabin impossible to accomplish, in many cases due to anti-icing fluid obscuring the view
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