Originally Posted by
SUPERTRAVEL
Perhaps a stupid question: I understand planes need to be deiced prior to takeoff under various circumstances. But aren't the same conditions around when planes are landing? I know planes can't be deiced inbound but aren't the same freezing conditions effecting the aircraft yet they land without the deicing fluid on them.
Another question I've wondered about: Every time I see a plane get deiced prior to takeoff including the planes I've been on, it seems the plane sits at the deicing station about 10 minutes after the deicing fluid is applied before it heads to the runway for takeoff. Seems like it would make more sense to take off right away rather than wait but is there some kind of "curing time" involved?
Thanks!
To answer the second half of your question, after de-icing we have to complete multiple items on a checklist and it just takes some time to work through it. There is no such “curing time.”
For simplicity, the main items that need to be addressed include reconfiguring the air conditioning system “packs” and prepping the aircraft for takeoff; flaps, trim, flight controls, etc.
The checklist items that normally get done after engine start and pushback have to be conducted after de-icing, thus the minor delay.
Hope this helps.