Originally Posted by
Bonehead
Again, the key points to me were that ERJ-145s fly higher and faster, typically spending less time in the icing environment, and are therefore a better choice when such weather is a possibility.
Statistically the risk is likely negligible (and flying a Q-400 is still better than driving, I'm sure), but there are differences between a prop and a jet in this context.
Actually, the reverse argument can be made. Jets require engine bleed air for anit-icing and at very low speeds (such as in a holding pattern or approach) the effectiveness decreases because engines are near idle. Conversely, turboprop anti-icing systems are designed to work effectively regardless of air speed or engine throttle. Can you name a Q accident that was blamed on icing and not pilot error?