Ice In Florida? Yep.

Florida pilots are accustomed to sunshine, heat, and summer thunderstorms. However, warm weather on the ground does not guarantee ice free conditions at altitude.

We all know that as an aircraft climbs, temperatures can rapidly decrease. When an aircraft encounters visible moisture in the appropriate temperature range, ice may accumulate on critical surfaces. Even a relatively small amount of ice can affect airflow, increase drag, reduce lift, and change the way an aircraft handles.

That is why the TKS anti-ice system should not be forgotten during routine aircraft maintenance.

Include TKS in Every Service Conversation

When scheduling your aircraft for servicing, ensure that in addition to checking other fluids such as fuel, engine oil, and hydraulic fluid, the technician also checks the TKS fluid quantity and the overall condition of the ice protection system, following the relevant maintenance guidelines.

Depending on the aircraft and the work being performed, this may include:

• Checking the TKS fluid level
• Looking for visible leaks or signs of service needs
• Reviewing system indications
• Confirming proper system operation when appropriate
• Checking applicable maintenance records and inspection requirements

Maintaining adequate fluid is only one part of aircraft readiness. The system must also be maintained and operated according to the aircraft’s Pilot’s Operating Handbook, Airplane Flight Manual, supplements, and approved maintenance instructions.

Florida Aircraft Can Still Encounter Icing Conditions

Of course, the weather at the hangar is only one part of the flight environment. Flying from a warm Florida airport, an aircraft may encounter much colder temperatures after climbing or while traveling to another region.

A properly maintained ice protection system provides an important aircraft capability, but it does not replace careful weather planning, sound decision making, or compliance with the aircraft’s operating limitations. Not every TKS equipped aircraft is approved for flight into known icing conditions, so owners and pilots should understand the specific equipment and approvals for their aircraft.

Aircraft Maintenance at KLAL

At Fixed Wing Aviation Maintenance, we take a whole aircraft approach to service. Our team helps owners identify items that may be easy to overlook, including systems that might not be used regularly during Florida’s warmer months.

Fixed Wing Aviation Maintenance is located at Lakeland Linder International Airport in Lakeland, Florida.

Schedule your next aircraft service appointment:

Call: (863) 606-5757
Visit: fixedwingaviation.com

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