The build up of snow and ice can have significant issues for the performance of a helicopter. If icing is encountered, the shape of the rotor blade section can be changed by ice on the leading edge. This can increase the camber of the blade bringing forward the angle of attack at which the stall is reached.

“It causes a significant reduction in lift.” → CORRECT. The net result of ice accretion on the blades is a reduction of lift, as much as 30%, and an increase in drag, up to 40%, which affects the main rotor disc's track (making the contaminated blade to fly lower in comparison with the other blades) and reduces the performance of the rotor (reducing the power available).

“It increases the likelihood of damage to composite rotor blades.” → INCORRECT. Ice fromation may pose severe structural risks to advanced composite blades, but it is not the primary threat.

“It causes whiteout conditions.” → INCORRECT. Whiteout is not related with ice formation on the rotor blades. It is a meteorological phenomenon that can significantly affect the safety and visibility of helicopters. It occurs in snowy or icy environments when there is a complete loss of contrast between the surface and the sky, resulting in a uniformly white or hazy landscape. This lack of visual reference points can lead to disorientation, spatial distortion, and a heightened risk of accidents.

“It increases engine power output.” → INCORRECT. When ice builds up within the engine intake, it can disrupt the airflow through the engine, leading to reduced engine efficiency and potential compressor stall or surge events. This can result in a loss of engine power, impaired aircraft performance, and even engine damage in severe cases.