A Simplified Criterion to Certify Light Aircraft for Flight in Icing Conditions

General aviation aircraft are, for the most part, prohibited from operating in icing conditions even when equipped with ice protection systems. This prohibition exists primarily because the FAA imposes transport category certification conditions on all categories of aircraft, and there is presently no appropriate alternative.

This paper outlines the evolution and application of a method of substantiation which was proposed to the FAA as a more realistic basis for certification of light airplanes in icing conditions. The paper is presented in two parts: a discussion of the method and its application to the Piper Seneca flight test program.