Operators Responsibilities Related to De-icing & Anti-icing Obligations During Winter Operations

Sofema Online (SOL) considers the typical obligations of an operator related to Winter Operations De-icing & Anti-icing.

Introduction

The responsibilities of aircraft operators regarding effective de-icing and anti-icing are crucial for ensuring safety during winter operations. These responsibilities are guided by several SAE International documents and standards, notably AS6285, AS6286, and AS6332, which collectively form the Globalized Aircraft Deicing Standards.

The responsibilities of aircraft operators regarding effective de-icing and anti-icing of aircraft are crucial for ensuring saf

ety during winter operations.

These responsibilities typically include:

• Developing and Implementing Procedures: Aircraft operators must establish comprehensive de-icing and anti-icing procedures.

 >>  These should be in line with regulatory requirements and best practices, covering various aspects like types of de-icing and anti-icing fluids, application methods, and timing.

• Training and Qualification of Personnel: Personnel involved in de-icing operations must be properly trained and qualified.

>>  This includes understanding the different types of de-icing fluids, application techniques, and safety precautions.

• Aircraft Inspection and Monitoring: Before flight, the aircraft must be inspected to ensure that it is free of ice, snow, and frost.

 Operators should have protocols for regular monitoring of weather conditions and re-inspection if there are delays between de-icing/anti-icing and takeoff.

• Record Keeping: Keeping detailed records of de-icing and anti-icing operations is mandatory

 >> This documentation should include information about the type and quantity of fluids used, time of application, and weather conditions.

• Communication and Coordination: Effective communication between pilots, ground crews, and air traffic control is essential.

  >>  This includes updates on weather conditions, de-icing fluid types used, and any potential delays due to de-icing operations.

• Adherence to Regulations and Standards: Compliance with national and international regulations governing aircraft de-icing and anti-icing is critical.

 >> This includes adhering to standards set by aviation authorities like the FAA, EASA, and ICAO.

• Equipment Maintenance and Availability: Ensuring that de-icing and anti-icing equipment is in good working order and readily available when needed is part of the operator's responsibility.

  >>  This includes maintaining trucks, sprayers, and other equipment used in the process.

• Risk Assessment and Management: Operators need to assess and manage the risks associated with icing conditions.

 >>  This includes making decisions about whether it's safe to fly and what de-icing measures are necessary under different conditions.

• Environmental Considerations: Operators should also consider the environmental impact of de-icing and anti-icing fluids and adopt measures to minimize any adverse effects.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly reviewing and updating de-icing and anti-icing procedures to incorporate new technologies, best practices, and lessons learned from past experiences is crucial for continual improvement.

Next Steps

For Training Related to Aircraft De–Icing & Anti-Icing please see Sofema Aviation Services and Sofema Online. For questions please email team@sassofia.com