FAA eyes tougher ice safety standards
July 1, 2010, 10:23 pm
The Federal Aviation Administration has announced a proposed expansion of its icing certification standards, with an eye on improving safety for passengers as well as pilots.
One part of the proposed FAA regulation would require manufacturers to demonstrate that aircraft can operate safely under conditions involving a "supercooled large drops" environment - typically freezing rain or drizzle.
"These new icing standards are part of our continuing effort to make the world's safest aviation system even safer," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.
FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt added that the proposed regulations "will help ensure aircraft can operate safely in some of the toughest icing conditions."
The regulations would require aircraft most affected by icing conditions to meet tougher performance and handling standards. Also, new transport category designs would be required to be able to fly in weather conditions involving supercooledliquid and ice crystals.
Expanded safety requirements regarding performance under icy weather conditions would also be applied to engines, engine installations and other airplane components - including angle of attack and airspeed indicating systems.
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