State-of-the-Art of Ground Aircraft Deicing Technology

This paper provides an update of operational, procedural, and systems information regarding on ground deicing and anti-icing of aircraft certified for Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Parts 91, 121, 135 operations. The data presented reflects general aviation and the airlines' perception of the clean aircraft concept and highlights the need for an increased awareness of the various types of deicing fluids and facilities available.

Two important issues surrounding the aircraft deicing fluids (ADFs) used in North America and Europe are addressed. First, the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Advisory Circular (AC) 20-117 stresses the clean aircraft concept which some members of the deicing community argue is violated by the Association of European Airline's (AER's) Type II thixotropic ADFs. Second, the environmental and health effects which may result from the various glycols contained in ADFs is the subject of some debate in the North American and European deicing community.