Flying in snow
01-11-2012 | 08:55 AM
#1
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Flying in snow
So with the winter here what are your thoughts on flying in snow? Once during my instrument training we had snow at altitude and my instructor (retired A/F) said it wasn't an issue becuase it was already frozen. We were in it for about 10 minutes and it didn't collect on the wings so it seemed reasonable what he said. Also we could have dropped down in altitude if it did collect so it wasn't an issue then. Just wondering about what you all think.
01-11-2012 | 09:24 AM
#2
Line Holder
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From: 172 SIC
Snow is only a visibility obstruction issue aloft. What you have to avoid is icing aloft. Snow won't accumulate on your aircraft in flight. Snow just flows around your aircraft just like it does in your car. With that said, make sure you remove it ALL before you try to fly the aircraft if it accumulates on the ground. Fairly often there is a layer underneath that will not blow off. Ice is what you need to be concerned with assuming you are instrument competent and equipped.
01-11-2012 | 01:31 PM
#3
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From: G550 & CL300 PIC
I agree that the snow will not adhere to the wings. However the FAA considers this icing conditions. Unless you are approved for flight into known icing conditions then you shouldn't go in my opinion.
01-11-2012 | 01:48 PM
#4
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From: 737 CA
Depending on the temps and the wetness of the snow, it could be an issue. Are you flying in warm air below cold air? Cold air below warm air? Is the snow melting or freezing? Are you a jet (ram rise temps) or a GA aircraft? It is icing conditions. Be careful. There are too many variables to say its ok or not ok for you.
01-11-2012 | 03:42 PM
#5
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Flying through snow is generally ok. Ive done it plenty of times in GA aircraft. It's especially cool at night with the landing light on - looks like a scene from star wars where they going into light speed!
Seriously though, just keep your eyes peeled on the OAT. Don't be surprised if you start seeing ice build up at +3C on your wings. Keep asking ATC and flight watch for recent pireps and where the freezing level is.
I hate icing.
Seriously though, just keep your eyes peeled on the OAT. Don't be surprised if you start seeing ice build up at +3C on your wings. Keep asking ATC and flight watch for recent pireps and where the freezing level is.
I hate icing.
01-11-2012 | 05:56 PM
#8
Flying Farmer
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From: Turbo-props' and John Deere's
As far as flying through it, not a problem as long as you aren't right at the freezing level. Wet snow can stick, but if it's snowing all the way to the surface, very unlikely you'll run into it.
01-12-2012 | 03:49 AM
#9
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