Ice formation on wings is a serious risk in aviation that can affect both flight safety and aircraft performance.

In sub-freezing temperatures, layers of ice can form on the wings and other critical parts of an aircraft, causing a range of problems ranging from reduced load-bearing capacity to catastrophic accidents. In this article, we examine the dangers of ice formation and icing, look at some historical accidents, and discuss the measures taken to prevent and combat icing.

Ice formation on wings significantly reduces the aerodynamic efficiency of an aircraft. The ice changes the shape of the wings and increases drag, which can lead to a significant loss of lift. These changes can make the aircraft unstable and affect controllability. The additional mass loads caused by the ice can place additional stress on the performance of the engines and further reduce the aircraft's ability to fly safely.

The two main types of icing are rimeis and glaze. Rimeis forms when small water droplets freeze on cold surfaces, forming a rough, porous structure. Glaze forms when larger water droplets hit the surface, forming a smooth, hard layer that is particularly dangerous because it greatly alters the aerodynamic shape of the wing.

Historical accidents caused by ice formation

• United Airlines Flight 553 (1972): The accident involving United Airlines Flight 553 in Chicago was caused in part by ice forming on the wings. The Boeing 737 was attempting to land in bad weather and with inadequate defrosting. The ice on the wings increased drag and reduced lift, making landing very difficult and ultimately leading to the crash, in which 43 people lost their lives.
• American Airlines Flight 383 (1979): Ice buildup played a major role in this incident, which occurred in Chicago. The DC-10 crashed on takeoff after skidding on an icy runway. The layer of ice on the wings and fuselage severely impaired the aircraft's control and lift. The accident claimed 273 lives and led to extensive safety reviews and improved regulations for aircraft de-icing.
• Air Florida Flight 90 (1982): Air Florida Flight 90 crashed after takeoff from Washington National Airport when the aircraft was unable to generate enough lift due to ice buildup on the wings. The icing and inadequate defrosting resulted in a critical loss of lift, causing the Boeing 737 to crash. The accident claimed 78 lives and led to greater regulation of deicing requirements for air travel.
• Singapore Airlines Flight 006 (2000):  This aircraft accident occurred at Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan and was caused by the combination of an icy runway and inadequate de-icing. The Boeing 747 collided with a crane on the runway while attempting to take off in bad weather conditions. 83 people lost their lives. The investigation showed that the icing and the condition of the runway were significant factors in this accident.

Measures to prevent and combat

The aviation industry has developed comprehensive measures to minimise the risks posed by ice formation. The most important ones include:

• Defrosting systems: Modern aircraft are equipped with heating systems that ensure that wings and other critical parts remain free of ice. These systems work both in the air and on the ground.
• De-icing fluids: Before takeoff, aircraft are often sprayed with special liquids designed to melt ice and prevent new ice from forming. These liquids are able to clean and protect the surfaces of the wings and fuselage.
• Regular maintenance and inspection: Airlines perform regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that de-icing and de-frosting systems are functioning properly.
• Training and protocols: Pilots and ground personnel are trained in the correct handling of de-icing procedures to ensure that the necessary steps to prevent ice formation are followed in all weather conditions.

Ice formation on wings poses a significant hazard to aviation. Past accidents highlight the potential risks associated with aircraft icing. However, the aviation industry has developed extensive measures to improve safety and minimize the effects of ice formation. Through continuous research, improved technologies and strict safety protocols, work is being done to further reduce the risk to passengers and crew.