ICE ISN'T NICE

As I stated earlier ice is not the only problem, but it is a big problem. Just as in fixed wing flying, ice accumulation may change the airfoil shape and increase drag. There is also parasitic drag from some of the static build up of ice. Most helicopters come equipped with engine de-ice but usually only larger helicopters have blade de-ice.

So what's the difference between de-ice and anti-ice, Chuck?

Glad you asked. As the name implies de-ice is for the removal of ice and anti-ice is for the prevention of ice build up. (I consider pitot heat an anti-ice measure.) De-ice and anti-ice can be electrical or bleed air from the engine. This depends on who the manufacturer is and what component we're talking about.

PREFLIGHT

De-icing should start with the preflight. Never scrape or chip away ice from your aircraft. The act of chipping may damage the component that you are removing ice from.

Aircraft components are also stressed in cold weather. This means a thorough preflight prior to run-up. If possible, preflight in a hangar is preferred. But if that is not possible, get dressed as warm as you can so you don't rush the inspection. I highly recommend wearing gloves so your skin doesn't stick to any ice formed on the aircraft. Remember, water, the mother of all life, can mean death in cold weather. Small moisture droplets can get almost everywhere to foul or clog your system. (Insert your own war story)

RUN-UP

Run-up is also much longer than normal. Have you ever noticed that your car transmission is more sluggish in cold weather? Well the same holds true for the aircraft. Oil pressures are high until the oil temperature gets to a "normal" operating range. In cold weather this doesn't just happen. It can take a very long time. Some aircraft operations call for the pilot to work the flight controls extensively prior to start. This is to get the hydraulics warmed and to make sure everything works.

TAXI

Now that you're ready to taxi be very cautious when coming to a hover. Your aircraft might still be stuck to the ground / ice. Did we ever talk about Dynamic Rollover? This might be the place for it. A slight back and forth pressure on the pedals will help you break free. Remember to be very slow as you apply power.

FLIGHT

The first thing a pilot might notice when ice is accumulating in flight (besides looking out the windshield) is an increased power demand. The rotor is becoming less efficient, so hopefully the prudent pilot already has his de-ice and anti-ice on. (Of course the really prudent pilot is sitting at home on his couch, throwin' down a beer.) Something else that I would hope a pilot would notice is a good vibration as the blade slings the ice. If it gets to this point, in my opinion, the pilot has let it go to far. Time to do something. You really have two options. Climb or descend. Get out of the conditions that are reeking havoc on you and your helicopter. Remember, ATC is your friend. Ask them for assistance.

STRESSED FOR SUCCESS

Cold weather also stresses the body. I know I sure move slower in the cold. Or maybe it's because I'm getting old. People who have had a cold injury in the past are now more susceptible to cold injuries. I personally have a standard that if it's cold where I'm flying and the heater is inop, then the aircraft is grounded. This is because I know that I'm an integral part of the operations of that helicopter and if I don't work properly, then the aircraft can't work properly.

I know many people who fly with jackets on as well. This is nothing to be sneered at. In the event that they must leave the aircraft in a hurry, they won't have time to look around and dig out their cold weather gear. This is especially true of the folks that operate in remote areas.

CAN HELICOPTERS FLY AT THE NORTH POLE?

So the answer to the question is: Yes, helicopters can fly at the north pole. It just takes a lot of good common sense and planning. Speaking of planning. . .What about that magnetic compass up there? Are all directions really south? I'll save that for another article.

Fly Safe...

Chuck

Next Month .. Airspace has Class.

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