SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-frost-on-wings

Why is frost on the wings dangerous for takeoff?

It disrupts smooth airflow and reduces lift.

  1. It adds too much weight to fly
  2. It freezes the ailerons in place
  3. It disrupts smooth airflow and reduces lift ✔

Why: Frost roughens the wing surface, so the airflow separates at a lower angle of attack than normal. The wing makes less lift and stalls sooner. Wings must be clean before takeoff.

Huh, didn't know that: Ice that builds up in flight both adds weight and cuts the wing's ability to make lift.

The dad joke
What do you call a snowman in July? A puddle.
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Sources

  1. FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 5 https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/faa-h-8083-25c.pdf
  2. FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR) sample questions https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/training_testing/testing/test_questions/par_questions.pdf

Test yourself in the game

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