Please Brief this topic to all Aircrew Members!

Winter Conditions- Planning, Preparation, and Safety

By Lt Col Steven Perta, CAP

The extreme winter cold conditions require diligence in preparation to fly aircraft.

Please consult the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) and engine manufacturer's specific recommendations, regarding when to pre-heat an aircraft engine prior to use in cold conditions. Engine service life can be drastically reduced by not adhering to the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition to this, the POH identifies the temperature at which the Winteization Kit (Baffles) should be installed for aircraft that are so equipped. Once the winterization kit is installed, pilots should be briefed that it is in place and it seems reasonable that a note be placed on the standardized aircraft binder cover, that indicates the kit is installed. Conversely, when the temperature rises above the level specified in the POH, the winterization kit needs to be removed to avoid running the engine too hot.

When using propane fired pre-heaters such as the "Dragon" type, crew members should be present at all times. Do not leave the aircraft unattended while the propane type pre-heater is connected and operating. Crew members should receive a orientation as to the use of the pre-heater. If pre-heating inside of an enclosure such as a hangar, proper ventilation from combustion gases is important.

For aircraft that are exposed to ice, snow, and outside conditions, A thorough de-icing to remove ice, snow and frost is necessary prior to flight. This may require many hours in a warm hangar prior to flight. As the ice and snow melts, the water should be removed with cloth towels to avoid immediate re-freezing once the aircraft is brought outside in the cold air. For A Category Reimbursed missions, it is reasonable to include payment for pre-heating and de-icing (if needed) on CAPF 108 as a safety item. For B & C non-reimbursed categories, the cost of pre-heating needs to be shared among the crew members as there is no mechanism for funding from NY Wing.

Many airport ramps are covered with ice and snow. Just walking out to the aircraft may be hazardous in that a person can fall on the ice. Use caution when moving about on ice covered surfaces. As snow accumulates on hangar roofs, one must be aware of the potential hazard of large amounts of ice and snow sliding off roof edges where an individual might be standing or an aircraft parked.

Finally, after looking at the conditions, airport environment, and aircraft in preparation for winter flight, we turn to the crew itself. Proper dress for weather conditions is vital. Individual dress for cold weather conditions including head gear, gloves, socks and protective clothing is vital. Just standing out on a aircraft ramp with the blowing wind on a cold day, can determine if an individual is properly dressed. Plan as if the aircraft had to set down in a unfriendly terrain and you had to endure the climatic conditions. With all that extra clothing and gear, take a close look at the aircraft weight and balance.

Let's Fly Safe !

Lt Col Steve Perta, NY Wing/DO