Originally Posted by
seagar
Two questions: This AM at RSW we were informed that there would be a mechanical delay of 20 minutes. A mechanic went on board with the crew (only) and the E170 was pushed away from the gate. They taxied about 400-500 yards away and on four separate occasions, ran the engines up. The GA said that each time they were above 75% thrust. The plane then taxied back to the gate, we all boarded and took off 15 minutes later.
Can anybody tell me what they tested and how running up the engines resolved the problem?!
That was a UAX flight, so have no idea. We don't fly the E170 at United.
Sounds like an engine issue they needed to run it up with a mechanic onboard to fix. Sorry.
Originally Posted by
seagar
Second question : As we were somewhere over Georgia at 36000' I was looking out the window and noticed the vertical winglet was covered from top to bottom with a thick coating of ice. The ice lasted until we started our decent over Indiana. It did not extend onto the wing itself. What effect does this have on flight and is this a concern? Thanks!
Ice covered winglets wouldn't be so much a hazard to flight, but it could cut down on the fuel efficiency of the aircraft. Winglets take induced drag away from the aircraft to reduce overall drag, but are not so much used for lift on the wing. Wings are typically heated on the leading edge, where ice formation can have a very negative effect.
AD